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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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32,423 Results based on applied filters

BGE Charitable Contributions

Baltimore Gas and Electric Company
Corporate
Anne Arundel County, Maryland, Baltimore City, Maryland +5 more
Unspecified amount
BGE Charitable Contributions supports community enhancement through focused corporate giving in four key areas: building Exelon's future workforce, energy empowerment, local vitality enrichment, and equal access to arts and culture. By investing in diverse nonprofit organizations, BGE aims to create sustainable improvements in education, environmental conservation, and cultural access, fostering an inclusive environment that reflects the values and needs of the communities it serves.
STEM / STEAM Education Climate Change Resilience & Equity Environmental Stewardship +6 more

Scientific & Regulatory Consultants, Inc. Scholarship ( Churubusco High School Scholarships)

Community Foundation of Whitley County
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount

Scientific & Regulatory Consultants, Inc. Scholarship

Science plays a vital role in our daily lives and includes a wide range of fields such as physician or veterinary services, nursing, microbiology, biology, chemistry, engineering, mathematics, psychology, music, etc. This scholarship views “scientific” very broadly and invites you to be creative.

Your application will be reviewed based upon the quality, not quantity, of the response to each question.

Applicants may apply every year.

Education - Higher Education Science Career / College Preparation +9 more

FMG Agriculture Scholarships

Farmers Mutual Group (FMG)
Corporate
New Zealand
Up to NZ $20,000
The FMG Agriculture Scholarships support two first-year agriculture students at Massey, Waikato, Otago, or Lincoln University with a $5,000 payment towards course fees. This scholarship is renewable for up to three years, contingent on maintaining a B- average. Eligible fields include Agriculture, Agribusiness, and Environmental Policy, among others. Applicants passionate about the agriculture industry are encouraged to apply.
Urban Planning Agriculture Plant Science +6 more

Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation Grants

The Irene E And George A Davis Foundation
Private
Hampden County, Massachusetts
Unspecified amount
The Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation provides grants to nonprofit organizations serving Hampden County, Massachusetts. Funding areas include early education, health, economic mobility, and arts. The Foundation supports general operating, capital, program, capacity building, and emergency funding to foster community development and address pressing needs. Eligible organizations must demonstrate measurable outcomes and a commitment to sustainable change while enhancing collaboration among local nonprofits.
Education - Preschool / Early Learning Art & Culture Health & Medicine +10 more

Solid Waste Disposal and Recycling Project Funding

South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources
State/Local Government
South Dakota
Unspecified amount
The Solid Waste Disposal and Recycling Project Funding aims to enhance solid waste management across South Dakota by providing grants and low-interest loans. Eligible applicants include municipalities, counties, and tribes that can develop facilities for waste management or recycling. Projects should align with the state's waste management hierarchy, focusing on source reduction, recycling, and energy production. Funding primarily comes from the Solid Waste Management program, ensuring sustainable practices while protecting the environment.
Waste Management Recycling Energy +1 more

McMurry Foundation Grant

McMurry Foundation
Private
Natrona County, Wyoming
Unspecified amount
The McMurry Foundation Grant, established in 1998, focuses on enhancing the well-being of communities in Wyoming, particularly in Natrona County. It supports a range of initiatives, including education, health services, and the arts, aimed at fostering innovation and self-sufficiency among local organizations. The Foundation provides funding for both new and established programs to create lasting community impact while adhering to values of excellence and compassion.
Education Religion & Spirituality Human & Social Services +12 more

Welfare Foundation Grant

Welfare Foundation, Inc.
Private
Chester County, Pennsylvania, Delaware
Unspecified amount
The Welfare Foundation Grant focuses on supporting nonprofits in Delaware and southern Chester County, emphasizing capital grants. With an annual budget of around $5 million, the Foundation has contributed approximately $130 million over 25 years. Eligible organizations must hold 501(c)(3) status and comply with non-discrimination policies. The Foundation prioritizes sectors such as social services, housing, health, education, environment, civic engagement, and the arts, while excluding annual support and political activities.
Health & Medicine Human & Social Services Education +11 more

Richard L. Blinder Award

James Marston Fitch Charitable Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $15,000
The Richard L. Blinder Award, presented biennially by the James Marston Fitch Charitable Foundation, recognizes architects and professionals in historic preservation for innovative proposals that advance architectural preservation in the U.S. The award encourages originality, whether through real projects or polemical exercises. With a funding limit of $15,000, recipients must demonstrate a need for their study and a realistic dissemination plan within 24 months, contributing to the preservation community.
Urban Planning Architecture Landscape Architecture +6 more

Chatham Fund Grant

The Cape Cod Foundation
Private
Barnstable County, Massachusetts
US $2,500 - US $5,000
The Chatham Fund, part of The Cape Cod Foundation, provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations that positively impact Chatham residents. With grants typically ranging from $2,500 to $5,000, the Fund focuses on proven programs, pilot projects, and organizational development. Priorities include addressing hunger, children's needs, and environmental concerns. Organizations must wait a year to reapply after receiving a grant, ensuring a fair process for all applicants.
Community Services Food Access & Hunger Environment +7 more

AFI Grant - Multi-year Grants

Adient Foundation Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The AFI Grant, administered by the Adient Foundation, Inc., aims to support philanthropic organizations in the U.S. that are tax-exempt. While primarily offering one-time grants, the Foundation evaluates proposals based on organizational structure, community impact, and management capacity. The Foundation complements public institutions and does not guarantee future funding based on past contributions. Grantees must operate with equal opportunity objectives, and past recipients must submit new applications each year.
Art & Culture Education Community Services +11 more

AFI Grant - One-time Grants and Renewals

Adient Foundation Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The AFI Grant, administered by the Adient Foundation, Inc., supports charitable organizations across the U.S. with a focus on philanthropic efforts. These one-time grants do not guarantee future funding, emphasizing a need for organizations to demonstrate sound management and community impact. Each year, past recipients must reapply under the standard application process, ensuring that support aligns with equal opportunity objectives and the Foundation's mission to complement public funding.
Community Services Performing Arts Civic Engagement & Education +11 more

AmeriCorps State and National Rhode Island Grants

ServeRI
State/Local Government
Rhode Island
Unspecified amount
The AmeriCorps State and National Rhode Island Grants, offered by ServeRI, empower organizations to tackle community needs by recruiting and training AmeriCorps members. These grants aim to enhance civic engagement and support pathways for participants to advance their careers or education. Successful proposals must demonstrate how AmeriCorps service positions address specific community challenges while providing meaningful benefits to the members. This initiative fosters collaboration among nonprofits, schools, and government agencies to improve lives and strengthen communities across Rhode Island.
Community Services Poverty Alleviation & Services Reentry Services +7 more

Mel Fellowship Program

Maryland Forestry Foundation
Association/Society
Maryland
US $10,000

Maryland Forestry Foundation

The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and a member of the Maryland Association of Forest Conservancy District Boards. We act as the fiscal agent for several programs of the 24 local Forestry Boards and provide important tax deductibility for their donors.

From advocating for innovative legislation that impacts Forestry in Maryland to overseeing Maryland's largest private property tree-planting operation, we're committed to making a greener and healthier future. We also actively support Urban Forestry programs, nurture the next generation of environmental leaders with the largest college fellowships in Natural Resources in the mid-Atlantic, and serve as the fiduciary agent for programs like the Natural Resources Careers Camp for high school students and the Maryland Urban & Community Forest grant program.

Mel Fellowship Program

The Maryland Forestry Foundation is pleased to offer four annual Mel Fellowships to Maryland college students for $10,000 per Fellowship.

Made possible by an annual grant from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, the Mel Fellowship program is intended to encourage students to pursue careers in Natural Resources and Urban Forestry and to help them matriculate in a Natural Resources-related field of study.

Forestry Natural Resources College Success / Persistence

Dirk Nowitzki Foundation Grant

Dirk Nowitzki Foundation
Private
Africa, Dallas County, Texas +11 more
Unspecified amount
The Dirk Nowitzki Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations dedicated to improving children's wellbeing, health, and education. Established by NBA star Dirk Nowitzki, the foundation aims to uplift children affected by illness, poverty, and neglect. Grants are awarded annually to projects that align with these goals, ensuring impactful experiences for children. Organizations are encouraged to apply, but the foundation does not fund the same organization twice in a calendar year or cover salaries, travel costs, or religious programs.
Youth Services Child Welfare Services Children’s Mental Health +7 more

Kings County Conservation Futures Grant

King County Parks
State/Local Government
King County, Washington
Unspecified amount
The Kings County Conservation Futures Grant provides essential funding for the Land Conservation Initiative, aimed at preserving vital natural and urban green spaces. This grant supports projects like parks, community gardens, and habitat restoration, particularly in underserved areas. Eligible recipients include local governments and qualified nonprofits. The initiative seeks to enhance community access to open spaces, ensuring that all residents can benefit from nature and recreational opportunities.
Parks & Public Spaces Land / Habitat Conservation Trail Creation & Maintenance +2 more

Water & Waste Disposal Grant Program in New Mexico

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
New Mexico
Unspecified amount
The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in New Mexico provides crucial funding for rural areas to establish clean drinking water systems, sanitary sewage disposal, solid waste management, and storm water drainage. Eligible applicants include state and local governments, private nonprofits, and federally-recognized tribes. The program aims to enhance public health and environmental quality while supporting communities in achieving reliable water services. This initiative is vital for households and businesses in underserved regions.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Waste Management

Kaulunani Community Grant Program

State of Hawai'i Division of Forestry and Wildlife
State/Local Government
Hawaii
US $3,000 - US $15,000
The Kaulunani Grant Program, managed by Arbor Day Hawaiʻi, invites proposals for projects that promote the benefits of trees within communities, celebrating Arbor Day on November 2, 2024. Competitive proposals should focus on community capacity building, including workshops on tree planting and care, engaging volunteers, and promoting accessibility to the public. Eligible applicants include non-profits, schools, and community groups from all islands in Hawaiʻi, ensuring projects contribute positively to environmental stewardship.
Forestry Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Urban Planning +1 more

Conservation Grant Program

Columbus Audubon
Private
Ohio
Up to US $5,000
The Columbus Audubon Conservation Grant Program, established in 2013, aims to support projects that conserve Ohio's native bird species through habitat management, protection, and scientific research. With over $20,000 awarded to date, the program encourages community involvement in creating bird-friendly environments. Eligible applicants include non-profits, businesses, educational institutions, and individuals. Projects must primarily focus on innovative conservation strategies within central Ohio, aligning with the National Audubon Society's initiatives.
Ornithology Ornithological Conservation Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration

Water & Waste Disposal Grant Program in New York

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
New York
Unspecified amount
The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in New York provides crucial funding for the development of clean drinking water systems, sewage disposal, solid waste management, and storm water drainage in eligible rural areas. This program supports state and local governments, private nonprofits, and federally-recognized tribes in their efforts to enhance public health and environmental quality. Eligible applicants can use the funds for construction, improvement, and related activities to ensure reliable service delivery.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Waste Management

Bea Solís Power Fund

Womens Foundation Of California
Private
California
Approximately US $2,000

Womens Foundation Of California

Since our founding in 1979, our work at Women’s Foundation California has evolved and expanded. Over the decades, we have celebrated our milestones and reflected on our journey as we continue to push towards what’s next. The Women’s Foundation California is a statewide, publicly supported foundation dedicated to achieving racial, economic, environmental, and gender justice by centering the experience and expertise of communities most impacted by systemic injustice. Our vision is to build a feminist future for California.

We amplify, mobilize, and redistribute power and resources to community leaders advancing racial, economic, environmental, and gender justice. This is achieved through grants to community-led organizations, grassroots leadership training through the Solís Policy Institute, and convenings to unite advocates, donors, policymakers, grantmakers, academics, and others, sharing knowledge to strengthen California’s social justice movement.

Bea Solís Power Fund

Our Bea Solís Power Fund invests in the leadership of our Solís Policy Institute alum as they continue to build racial, economic, environmental, and gender justice beyond our training.

This year, our Bea Solís Power Fund solidified our commitment to empowering transformation by disbursing $18,000 in small grants for essential resources to support alums to continue with their advocacy work.

Together, we can ensure that the creative doers and thinkers, movers, and shakers across our SPI alum network have the resources they need to build our shared feminist future. 

Civic Engagement & Education Environmental Justice & Advocacy Crisis Intervention +4 more

Weed Management Area - Private Forest Grant Program (WMA-PFGP)

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
State/Local Government
Wisconsin
Up to US $5,000

About the DNR

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.

Weed Management Area - Private Forest Grant Program (WMA-PFGP)

The WMA-PFGP assists eligible weed management groups (WMG) in addressing invasive plants, both by dealing directly with the invasives and by providing education, information and outreach to others. This is a reimbursement program that covers up to 75% of the eligible costs, 25% match is required.

Environmental Conservation Natural Resources Forestry

Community Grants Program: Ka Papa O Kakuhihewa Fund (Oahu)

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Honolulu County, Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Ka Papa O Kakuhihewa Fund, part of the Community Grants Program by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, aims to support nonprofit organizations focused on resource conservation. It prioritizes projects that promote environmental education, energy conservation, and stewardship initiatives, particularly benefiting the Wai‘anae Coast and Kapolei communities. The fund emphasizes youth engagement and local economic support, advocating for partnerships with community organizations to enhance conservation efforts and instill a sustainable mindset among future generations.
Environmental Education Science Communications Natural Resources +4 more

Community Forestry Grant (SD)

South Dakota Department of Agriculture & Natural Resources
State/Local Government
South Dakota
Up to US $5,000
The Community Forestry Grant (SD) aims to enhance urban tree cover and forest maintenance through educational programs, financial assistance, and technical support. Awarded by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture & Natural Resources, grants up to $5,000 are available for local governments and eligible nonprofits. This initiative promotes awareness of tree benefits, encourages sustainable practices, and implements tree planting programs to improve air quality and combat climate change.
Forestry Green Infrastructure Greening & Beautification +1 more

Cooperative Agreement to Support Activities Related to Analgesics, Anesthetics, and Addiction (U01) Clinical Trials Allowed

US Department of Health & Human Services: Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Federal Government
United States
US $2,000,000
The Cooperative Agreement to Support Activities Related to Analgesics, Anesthetics, and Addiction (U01) aims to enhance research in Anesthesia, Addiction Medicine, and Pain Medicine. It focuses on critical areas such as clinical trial endpoints for chronic pain, outcome measures in stimulant use disorders, and neurodevelopmental assessments in pediatric patients. The initiative encourages applicants to propose comprehensive, evidence-based plans to improve the prescribing of analgesic and anesthetic drug products, with multiple awards available.
Pharmacology Chronic / Acute Pain Anesthesia and Pain Medicine +3 more

Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Missouri

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Missouri
Unspecified amount
The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Missouri provides essential funding for rural households and businesses to access clean drinking water, sanitary sewage disposal, solid waste management, and storm water drainage. This program aims to support areas that cannot secure commercial credit, helping eligible applicants such as local governments and nonprofits. Funds can be used for construction, improvements, legal fees, and equipment, ensuring a sustainable and reliable infrastructure for communities.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Waste Management

Maryland Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) Grant

Rural Maryland Council
State/Local Government
Allegany County, Maryland, Calvert County, Maryland +16 more
Unspecified amount

About Us

The Rural Maryland Council

The Rural Maryland Council (RMC) brings together citizens, community-based organizations, federal, state, county and municipal government officials as well as representatives of the for-profit and nonprofit sectors to collectively address the needs of Rural Maryland communities. We provide a venue for members of agriculture and natural resource-based industries, health care facilities, educational institutions, economic and community development organizations, for-profit and nonprofit corporations, and government agencies to cross traditional boundaries, share information, and address in a more holistic way the special needs and opportunities in Rural Maryland.

Our goals are to:

  • Encourage healthy, connected communities throughout Rural Maryland through convening of stakeholders, education, public relations, and advocacy.
  • Support the development and growth of vibrant economies in Rural Maryland.
  • Foster stewardship of Maryland’s natural resources.
  • Maximize RMC outreach, resources and mission through financial and organizational development.

As a collaborative partnership, the RMC operates in a nonpartisan and nondiscriminatory manner. Policy-makers and managers from stakeholder agencies and organizations at all levels of government and the private sector are valued participants. Where practical, the decision-making undertaken by the RMC is made by reaching consensus.

RMC’s vision is a future where all of Rural Maryland is prosperous with thriving resources, vibrant economies, and healthy, connected communities.

Maryland Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP)

Purpose:

To support initiatives that improve access to healthy, locally sourced food across rural communities. The program will support projects that expand post-harvest infrastructure for small farms, enhance food distribution through food hubs and mobile markets, and increase procurement of local foods by institutions such as schools, hospitals, and community organizations. Additional priorities include advancing nutrition education and supporting regional coordination to address food insecurity in rural “hot spot” communities.

Rural Health Care Food Security Healthy Habits & Behaviors +2 more

RIF Capacity Building Grants

The Rhode Island Community Foundation
Private
Rhode Island
Up to US $15,000
The Rhode Island Foundation's RIF Capacity Building Grants program supports 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Rhode Island. It aims to empower organizations that align with community priorities, focusing on diversity, equity, inclusion, and access (DEIA). Grants provide funding and technical assistance for strategic planning, business development, and operational improvements to enhance community impact. Proposals are evaluated based on need, readiness, and expected outcomes, ensuring a commitment to addressing systemic inequities in the region.
Civic Engagement & Education Health Care Access & Delivery Climate Change Resilience & Equity +5 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.

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.