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Best Grants for 501(c)(3)

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

33,000+

Available grants

$8.25B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

33,000+ grants
$8.25B total
$6K median

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32,595 Results based on applied filters

Utah 21st Century Community Learning Center (CCLC) Grants

Utah Department of Health and Human Services
State/Local Government
Utah
Unspecified amount
The Utah 21st Century Community Learning Center (CCLC) Grants provide essential support to Local Education Agencies and Community-Based Organizations, focusing on students in high-poverty schools. These grants aim to enhance academic enrichment and offer a variety of services, including tutoring, youth development activities, and family literacy programs. With over 30 grants serving more than 6,000 students, this initiative plays a crucial role in improving educational outcomes in Utah.
Education - K through 12 Literacy Academic Success & Enrichment +7 more

Disaster Distress Helpline

US HHS: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $1,200,000
The Disaster Distress Helpline (DDH) offers 24/7 crisis counseling to individuals in the U.S. and its territories facing emotional distress from disasters. Managed by SAMHSA, the helpline aims to enhance and strengthen access to crucial support services year-round, ensuring that those affected by natural or human-caused disasters receive the help they need to mitigate behavioral health impacts.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Crisis Intervention Suicide Prevention

Rocky Community Improvement Fund Grant

Athens County Foundation
Private
Athens County, Ohio, Hocking County, Ohio +5 more
Unspecified amount
The Rocky Community Improvement Fund Grant, established by Rocky Brands, Inc., aims to enhance local communities by providing grants that promote safety, health, and cleanliness. With a focus on addressing the needs of disadvantaged populations in Athens County, Ohio, this fund prioritizes projects that align with its mission and foster collaboration among organizations. Eligible applicants include 501c3 organizations and government agencies, ensuring impactful contributions to community improvement initiatives.
Education Human & Social Services Real Estate & Housing +10 more

Advanced Industries Collaborative Infrastructure Grant

Colorado Office of Economic Development & International Trade
State/Local Government
Colorado
US $50,000 - US $500,000
The Advanced Industries Collaborative Infrastructure Grant, offered by the Colorado Office of Economic Development & International Trade, aims to bolster collaborative projects across key advanced industries in Colorado. With funding up to $500,000, the grant seeks to enhance industry infrastructure, promote partnerships, and support innovation. Eligible applicants must engage multiple partners, provide matching funds, and demonstrate sustainability beyond the grant, ensuring impactful contributions to the state's economic landscape.
Energy Bioengineering Biomechanics +10 more

Valley Kids Foundation Grants

Valley Kids Foundation, Inc.
Private
Adams County, Wisconsin, Brown County, Wisconsin +15 more
Unspecified amount
The Valley Kids Foundation Grants are designed to provide essential support to children in the Fox River Valley area of Wisconsin. With zero operating expenses, all contributions directly assist children under eighteen years old in need of medical help, educational assistance, and recreational opportunities. The Foundation is committed to using donations efficiently and complying with all regulations, ensuring that every dollar helps make a significant difference in the lives of local children.
Children’s Health & Pediatrics Youth Services Children’s Mental Health +4 more

Mayo Clinic Community Contributions Program in Florida: Access to Care

Mayo Clinic
Private
Clay County, Florida, Duval County, Florida +3 more
Unspecified amount
The Mayo Clinic Community Contributions Program in Florida aims to enhance community health through strategic partnerships and support for diverse, underserved populations. Focused on enhancing patient care, education, and community engagement, the program invites sponsorship requests for initiatives in human services, education, diversity, and cultural enrichment. By aligning with key health priorities such as access and mental health, Mayo Clinic strives to foster a welcoming and vibrant environment for all.
Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Civic Engagement & Education +5 more

Bridgestone Americas Trust Fund: Community Impact Grants

Bridgestone Americas Trust Fund
United States
US $5,000 - US $10,000

Bridgestone Americas Trust Fund Grants

Empowering People to Move, Live, Work, and Play

Bridgestone has awarded over $60 million to nonprofit organizations in the United States since 1951, and we are committed to continuing our legacy of giving back by supporting communities around the U.S.

Bridgestone works with grantseekers that offer solutions to keep society moving forward. Strong partners offer a human-centered approach to societal challenges in one or more of the following areas of focus: 

In addition to our three areas of focus, we will consider applications from organizations that have hosted volunteer or community engagement events with Bridgestone volunteers and organizations that have received funding in previous years. 

Health & Medicine Environmental Conservation Mammalian Conservation +5 more

Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Oregon

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Oregon
Unspecified amount
The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Oregon offers crucial funding for developing clean drinking water systems, sewage disposal, and storm water management in eligible rural areas. These funds can be utilized for the acquisition, construction, or enhancement of vital infrastructure, including drinking water sourcing and sewer systems. This program targets applicants unable to secure commercial credit, supporting local governments, nonprofits, and tribes to ensure reliable services in rural communities.
Waste Management Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management

Water & Waste Disposal Grant Program in Ohio

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Ohio provides essential funding for rural communities to develop clean drinking water systems and effective waste disposal solutions. This program supports various projects including the construction and improvement of water sourcing, sewer systems, and solid waste management. Eligible applicants include local governments, nonprofits, and tribes, ensuring that underserved areas receive the necessary resources for sustainable development.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Waste Management

Water & Waste Disposal Grant Program in North Dakota

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
North Dakota
Unspecified amount
The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in North Dakota provides essential funding for the development of reliable drinking water systems, sewage disposal, and storm water management in eligible rural areas. This program supports entities like state and local governments, nonprofits, and tribes, ensuring access to clean water and sanitation. It covers acquisition, construction, and improvement costs, along with related expenses such as legal fees and equipment purchases, fostering healthier communities.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Waste Management

Water & Waste Disposal Grant Program in North Carolina

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
North Carolina
Unspecified amount
The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in North Carolina offers vital funding to support clean drinking water systems, sewage disposal, solid waste management, and stormwater drainage in rural areas. Eligible applicants include governmental entities, private nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes who struggle to access affordable credit. This program aims to enhance public health and environmental quality through improved infrastructure, ensuring that rural communities receive essential services.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Waste Management

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

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

Water & Waste Disposal Grant Program in New Jersey

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
New Jersey
Unspecified amount
The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in New Jersey provides essential funding for the development of clean drinking water systems, sewage disposal, solid waste management, and storm water drainage in eligible rural areas. This initiative supports local governments, nonprofits, and tribes that struggle to secure commercial credit. Eligible projects include construction and improvement of water infrastructure, ensuring reliable services for communities with populations of 10,000 or less.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Waste Management

Affinity Legacy Community Grant Program

Affinity Legacy Inc
Private
Bronx County, New York, Kings County, New York +8 more
US $25,000 - US $1,000,000
The Affinity Legacy Community Grant Program aims to enhance health and well-being in underserved communities through funding for organizations focused on mental health, food insecurity, re-entry for formerly incarcerated individuals, and consumer health education. Eligible groups must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities operating within Affinity's 10-county service area. This initiative reflects a commitment to collaboration and compassion, ensuring vital support for those in need.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Food Security +3 more

Preterm Birth Reduction Initiative RFA (2026-06-19)

District of Columbia Department of Health
State/Local Government
District of Columbia
US $100,000 - US $300,000

DC Health aims to reduce racial/ethnic  disparities in preterm and birth and infant mortality in the District of Columbia. Funding under this RFA will support the implementation of evidence-based strategies to reduce mental risk factors and the occurrence of preterm births among  high-risk District residents. 

Obstetrics & Neonatal Care Women's Health Maternal And Perinatal Health

Northern Great Plains Grant Program

National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)
Private
Adams County, North Dakota, Antelope County, Nebraska +149 more
US $200,000 - US $1,500,000
The Northern Great Plains Grant Program, initiated by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), aims to conserve and restore grasslands and wildlife in the Northern Great Plains. With approximately $22 million available in grants for 2025, the program focuses on sustaining healthy populations of grassland-obligate species while promoting sustainable livelihoods and preserving cultural identities, including tribal cultures and food sovereignty. Key funding partners include multiple federal agencies and private organizations.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Wildlife Management Ornithological Conservation +2 more

Drought Emergency: Protecting Salmon

California Department of Fish and Wildlife
State/Local Government
California
Unspecified amount
The Drought Emergency: Protecting Salmon program by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife aims to support restoration and protection projects that enhance salmon resilience against drought and climate change. This funding opportunity offers up to $10 million for projects in the Scott and Shasta River watersheds, emphasizing collaboration with local tribes and landowners. Eligible projects will focus on improving riparian and aquatic habitats, reconnecting historical floodplains, and enhancing ecological functions.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Fisheries Freshwater Conservation +2 more

Water & Waste Disposal Grant Program in New Hampshire

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
New Hampshire
Unspecified amount
The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in New Hampshire provides essential funding for clean drinking water systems, sewage disposal, and stormwater management in rural areas. Eligible applicants include government entities, nonprofits, and federally-recognized tribes who cannot access commercial credit. The program supports various related activities, including legal fees and land acquisition, ensuring that communities can maintain and improve their water infrastructure effectively.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Waste Management

Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Nevada

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Nevada
Unspecified amount
The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Nevada offers crucial funding for rural areas to enhance drinking water systems and manage sewage and solid waste disposal. This initiative supports eligible governmental entities, private nonprofits, and federally-recognized tribes in acquiring and improving essential infrastructure. Funds can also cover associated legal fees and operational costs. By focusing on rural communities with populations of 10,000 or less, the program aims to ensure sustainable and reliable service delivery.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Waste Management

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Water/Wastewater Engineering

Oklahoma Department of Commerce
State/Local Government
Oklahoma
Up to US $600,000

Oklahoma Department of Commerce

Here at the Department of Commerce, our job is to bring employment, investment, and economic prosperity to the state of Oklahoma. Through dynamic partnerships and innovative collaborations with companies, universities, not-for-profit organizations, and government leaders, we are building a business environment that supports business growth and shared community prosperity.

Community Development Block Grant Programs

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program enables rural Oklahoma communities to finance a variety of public infrastructure and economic improvements and helps promote job growth as a result of these improvements. CDBG funds are provided by the federal government (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) and managed by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce to help ensure Oklahoma’s most critical needs are addressed.

CDBG Water + Wastewater Engineering

The Water and Wastewater Engineering Program funds water and wastewater projects that require more than one year to complete through a “phased approach”. Phase I of the Water and Wastewater Engineering program covers only engineering costs plus an appropriate amount of administration. Once the applicant receives their construction permit, the Community Development Division at Commerce will issue an award for construction, and the second phase (Phase II) of the project will begin.

Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Waste Management Water Resource Management

Scaife Family Foundation Grant

Scaife Family Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Scaife Family Foundation Grant has been supporting vulnerable community members for nearly 40 years, providing over $180 million in donations to non-profits. The Foundation aims to match organizations with aligned goals, focusing on women and children, addiction prevention, and animal welfare. It offers grants for general operating and program support, prioritizing impactful programs that address societal issues. Notably, the Foundation considers proposals that foster healthy relationships and promote treatment for addiction, enhancing the welfare of both humans and animals.
Children’s Health & Pediatrics Children’s Mental Health Child Welfare Services +6 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

North Wilkesboro Grant Program

Speedway Children's Charities
Private
Wilkes County, North Carolina
Unspecified amount
The North Wilkesboro Grant Program, managed by Speedway Children's Charities, aims to support nonprofits focused on children in Wilkes County. In 2024, over $320,000 was distributed to local organizations. The program prioritizes aid for homeless individuals, orphans, foster youth, and victims of sex trafficking, alongside critical medical and educational services. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations with a focus on children's welfare, ensuring equitable opportunities for all.
Child Abuse & Neglect Child Foster Care & Adoption Services Early Childhood Development +4 more

Water & Waste Disposal Grant Program in Montana

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Montana provides essential funding for the development of reliable drinking water, sewage disposal, solid waste management, and storm water systems in eligible rural areas. It supports applicants unable to secure conventional financing, including local governments, private nonprofits, and tribes. Eligible areas include rural towns with populations under 10,000 and tribal lands. Funds can cover construction costs, legal fees, and necessary project expenses to enhance community health and environmental sustainability.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Waste Management

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

TruStage Foundation Grants and Sponsorships

TruStage Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The TruStage Foundation focuses on fostering economic mobility through education and housing initiatives. By supporting K-12 literacy, mentoring, and affordable housing projects, the foundation aims to uplift marginalized communities. With a commitment to addressing racial and socioeconomic disparities, TruStage seeks to empower individuals and families to build a brighter future. Their funding is directed towards impactful programs that align with their mission, while avoiding causes that do not meet their criteria for economic mobility.
Literacy Tutoring & Mentoring Equitable & Affordable Housing +3 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.