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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

$9.00B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

33,000+ grants
$9.00B total
$6K median

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32,545 Results based on applied filters

Rogers Family Foundation Fund

Rogers Family Foundation Co Gma Foundations Inc
Private
Massachusetts, New Hampshire
US $5,000 - US $25,000
The Rogers Family Foundation Fund supports nonprofit organizations focused on education, health, human services, community development, and the arts in Massachusetts' Merrimack Valley and North Shore, as well as Southeastern New Hampshire. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt under 501(c)(3) and not classified as private foundations. Proposal deadlines are March 1 and September 1, with specific funding interests prioritized for program support.
Education Health & Medicine Human & Social Services +2 more

Community Impact Grants - General Operating Support

Center for Jewish Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix
Private
Maricopa County, Arizona
Up to US $25,000
The Community Impact Grants by the Center for Jewish Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix provide essential support to 501(c)(3) organizations and local Jewish entities that serve the Greater Phoenix area. These grants focus on innovative programming and the sustainability of Jewish life and leadership both locally and abroad. Eligible organizations must demonstrate fiscal soundness and a proven track record, ensuring that funding directly benefits the community. Applications are encouraged to align with CJP's mission and vision.
Human & Social Services Community Development & Revitalization Judaism

Affiliate Grants - Guest Speaker Fund

American Musicological Society Inc
Private
United States
Up to US $1,500
The Affiliate Grants - Guest Speaker Fund, provided by the American Musicological Society, offers financial assistance to AMS committees and study groups inviting external speakers to the Annual Meeting. Grants up to $1,500 cover travel expenses and honoraria for invited guests, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration within musicology. Applications must be submitted by group representatives, and the deadline precedes the standard proposal deadlines for committee activities. This program encourages enriching discussions by including diverse voices from outside the field.
Music Nonprofit Growth & Development

First Cumberland Properties Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee
Private
Davidson County, Tennessee
Unspecified amount
The First Cumberland Properties Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, supports residents of subsidized housing in Davidson County. Eligible applicants must have a high school diploma or GED, maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA, and plan to attend an accredited college, university, or technical school. This fund aims to enhance educational opportunities and promote upward mobility, contributing to the foundation's mission of fostering a thriving and inclusive community.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Nancy Stump Seiger Scholarship Fund

Berks County Community Foundation
Private
Berks County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Nancy Stump Seiger Scholarship Fund, managed by the Berks County Community Foundation, offers scholarships to graduating seniors from Berks County planning to pursue education at Kutztown University. Established in 1994, the foundation aims to fulfill charitable goals by distributing millions in scholarships and grants annually to support local students and nonprofit endeavors. This fund specifically encourages future educators, helping them achieve their academic aspirations.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

John Rich Curran Memorial Scholarship Fund

Berks County Community Foundation
Private
Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The John Rich Curran Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by family and friends in 2005, supports outstanding graduating seniors from Schuylkill County high schools. Managed by the Berks County Community Foundation, this fund provides multi-year scholarships to students with a cumulative B average (3.0) or better. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and plan to pursue further education at a four-year college or university. This scholarship is available to select schools on a rotating basis.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Fulton Association for Community Enrichment Multi-Fund Grant

Quad Cities Community Foundation
Private
Fulton County, Illinois
Unspecified amount
The Fulton Association for Community Enrichment Multi-Fund Grant, managed by the Quad Cities Community Foundation, combines four grant opportunities to support various community needs in Fulton, IL. This grant facilitates funding for organizations focusing on community impact, education, and essential services for residents. It aims to enhance organizational capacity and support critical projects, ensuring that local needs are met effectively. By connecting generous donors with pressing community causes, this initiative fosters lasting positive change.
Community Development & Revitalization Education Religion & Spirituality +1 more

Geneseo Is For Tomorrow (GIFT) Grant

Quad Cities Community Foundation
Private
Henry County, Illinois
Up to US $1,500
The Geneseo Is For Tomorrow (GIFT) Grant, provided by the Quad Cities Community Foundation, aims to support nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status. Annually, it awards significant funding, having distributed over $160,000 last year to schools, hospitals, and community organizations. This initiative reflects the foundation's commitment to enhancing local communities through generous donations, fostering a culture of philanthropy and support for vital causes in Rock Island County, Illinois, and Scott County, Iowa.
Education Health & Medicine Human & Social Services +1 more

ACS - Fanconi Cancer Foundation Discovery Boost Grant

American Cancer Society
Association/Society
United States
More than US $135,000
The ACS - Fanconi Cancer Foundation Discovery Boost Grant invites innovative proposals for translational cancer research addressing the challenges faced by individuals with Fanconi anemia (FA). This grant supports high-risk, high-reward projects aimed at improving detection, prevention, or treatment of FA-related cancers. With funding of up to $135,000 per year for two years, it encourages research in early detection technologies, prevention mechanisms, and therapeutic strategies tailored to the unique sensitivities of the FA population.
Cancer / Oncology

Rural Health Fellows Leadership Program

National Rural Health Association
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Rural Health Fellows Leadership Program, offered by the National Rural Health Association (NRHA), is an intensive yearlong initiative aimed at cultivating a diverse network of rural health leaders. Selected participants engage in leadership training, policy advocacy, and collaborative projects. The program includes monthly virtual sessions, in-person meetings at key conferences, and opportunities for financial support, thereby empowering fellows to make a significant impact on rural healthcare.
Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health

AMS Opportunity Scholarship Fund

The Community Foundation for Northern Virginia
Private
Alexandria City, Virginia, Arlington County, Virginia +3 more
US $2,500
The AMS Opportunity Scholarship Fund, established by former executives of American Management Systems, Inc., supports graduating high school seniors in Northern Virginia pursuing STEM education. Founded in 1970, AMS played a pivotal role in the region's technology sector. This endowed fund aims to foster the next generation of talent by providing financial support to those in financial need, especially students from low-income backgrounds, thereby continuing the legacy of community leadership and innovation.
Academic Scholarship Programs STEM / STEAM Education

Cancer Center American Cancer Society Institutional Research Grant Competition

Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute (CTSI)
Association/Society
Indiana
Up to US $50,000
The Cancer Center American Cancer Society Institutional Research Grant Competition aims to support new IU investigators with pilot projects in cancer research. Funded by the American Cancer Society, this initiative provides up to $50,000 to help early-career researchers develop preliminary data for future national funding opportunities. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or hold a valid visa, and must not have received prior ACS-IRG funding. The goal is to foster innovative research that addresses crucial health challenges.
Cancer / Oncology

Cameron and Virginia Dye Scholarship Fund

The Community Foundation for Northern Virginia
Private
Arlington County, Virginia
Up to US $5,000
The Cameron and Virginia Dye Scholarship Fund supports graduates of Arlington Public Schools in pursuing higher education at accredited U.S. universities. Established by the Dye family, the fund aims to assist promising students in financial need while recognizing their community service, academic achievements, and extracurricular involvement. This initiative underscores the commitment of the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia to enhance educational opportunities and social mobility for local youth.
Academic Scholarship Programs Education - Higher Education

Borkee Hagley Foundation Grant Fund- Statewide

Delaware Community Foundation
Private
Delaware
Up to US $50,000
The Borkee Hagley Fund, supported by the Delaware Community Foundation, provides grants aimed at enhancing clinical research and emotional support for patients with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. The fund encourages nonprofits to apply, particularly those addressing critical needs and promoting equity in Delaware. By focusing on comprehensive care, the fund aims to improve the quality of life for affected families and individuals, making a significant impact in the community.
Neurological Diseases & Disorders

Winneconne Area Education Fund

Oshkosh Area Community Foundation
Private
Winnebago County, Wisconsin
Up to US $2,500
The Winneconne Area Education Fund, established in 1998, aims to enhance educational experiences for students in the Winneconne Community School District. Managed by the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation, this fund supports innovative projects and programs that foster learning. Eligible applicants include K-12 teachers, while ineligible requests involve facility renovations or capital equipment. The foundation encourages creative approaches that extend beyond traditional classroom settings, ensuring impactful educational opportunities for the community.
Education - K through 12 Academic Success & Enrichment

Civic Fabric Fund – State & Local Policy Grant

The Denver Foundation
Private
Adams County, Colorado, Arapahoe County, Colorado +7 more
US $15,000 - US $30,000
The Civic Fabric Fund, managed by The Denver Foundation, invites eligible nonprofits to apply for funding to support state and local policy advocacy. This initiative aims to enhance community engagement and coalition building in the Metro Denver area. Organizations may apply for either general operating or program-specific grants. Priority is given to efforts that focus on grassroots coalition-building and community engagement, addressing local issues outlined in the foundation’s policy principles.
Public Policy Civic Engagement & Education

Wofford College Fund

Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina
Private
Berkeley County, South Carolina, Charleston County, South Carolina +1 more
Approximately US $900
The Wofford College Fund, established by the Samuel Freeman Charitable Trust, aims to support high school seniors from Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties pursuing a four-year degree at Wofford College. This initiative is part of the Coastal Community Foundation's broader mission to address community needs through strategic investments and grantmaking, fostering equity and opportunity for all residents in South Carolina's coastal region.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Warren O. Pinckney Scholarship Fund

Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina
Private
Berkeley County, South Carolina, Charleston County, South Carolina +1 more
US $500 - US $2,000
The Warren O. Pinckney Scholarship Fund, established in 1973, provides essential financial support to students from Berkeley, Charleston, or Dorchester counties pursuing higher education. Managed by the Coastal Community Foundation, this fund addresses the financial needs of local students, ensuring they have the opportunity to achieve their educational goals. With a legacy of impactful scholarships, the fund continues to empower future leaders in the community.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

UPLIFT Scholarship

Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina
Private
Berkeley County, South Carolina, Charleston County, South Carolina +1 more
Approximately US $5,000
The UPLIFT Scholarship, established by East Cooper Medical Center in 2020, supports students from Berkeley, Charleston, or Dorchester Counties maintaining a GPA of 2.5 or higher. This initiative, part of the Coastal Community Foundation's mission, aims to enhance equity and opportunity in the community. Preference is given to applicants with a relative employed by ECMC or its parent company, Tenet Healthcare, ensuring that local families benefit from this educational support.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Shannon Sudderth Scholarship Endowment

Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina
Private
Charleston County, South Carolina
Approximately US $2,500
The Shannon Sudderth Scholarship Endowment, established in 2020, aims to support high school seniors residing in Charleston County by providing two renewable scholarships. This initiative is part of the Coastal Community Foundation's mission to foster equity, opportunity, and well-being in the community. Through strategic grantmaking and resources, the foundation addresses local needs and empowers future leaders to pursue their educational goals.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Rufus C. Barkley, Jr. Leadership Scholarship Fund

Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina
Private
Berkeley County, South Carolina, Charleston County, South Carolina +2 more
Approximately US $10,000
The Rufus C. Barkley, Jr. Leadership Scholarship Fund, established in 2000, supports students from Charleston, Berkeley, Dorchester, or Colleton counties. This scholarship prioritizes academic merit and character, considering financial need. Applicants should demonstrate well-rounded interests and a commitment to helping others. One renewable award will be granted for up to four years of college. The fund reflects the Coastal Community Foundation's mission to enhance equity and opportunity in local communities.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Donald C. and Johanna Miller Scholarship Endowment

Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina
Private
Berkeley County, South Carolina, Charleston County, South Carolina +1 more
Approximately US $1,000
The Donald C. and Johanna Miller Scholarship Endowment, established in 2019 by Don and Jo Miller, supports high school seniors residing in Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester Counties. This scholarship is part of the Coastal Community Foundation's mission to create equitable opportunities for students. By leveraging community resources, the foundation aims to empower local youth to achieve their educational goals, ultimately fostering vibrant communities along South Carolina's coast.
Academic Scholarship Programs Education - Higher Education

Decker Scholarship

Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina
Private
Berkeley County, South Carolina, Charleston County, South Carolina +1 more
Approximately US $700
The Decker Scholarship, established by the Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina, aims to provide higher education funding for students in Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties. This initiative is part of a larger commitment to fostering equity and opportunity within the community. By leveraging endowment funds, the foundation addresses local needs while empowering students to pursue their academic goals. This scholarship reflects a dedication to supporting the educational aspirations of future leaders in the region.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Amanda’s Scholarship Fund

Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina
Private
Berkeley County, South Carolina, Charleston County, South Carolina +1 more
Approximately US $5,000
Amanda’s Scholarship Fund, established in memory of Amanda Welling Dykes, supports students from Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties. Funded through the Coastal Community Foundation, it honors Amanda’s love for learning and character. The foundation invests in community needs, promoting equity and opportunity through scholarships and grants, while addressing critical challenges like education access. This initiative reflects a commitment to nurturing the potential of young learners in South Carolina.
Academic Scholarship Programs Education - Higher Education

Gadsden Family Fund

Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina
Private
Berkeley County, South Carolina, Dorchester County, South Carolina
Approximately US $600
The Gadsden Family Fund, established in 1983, supports residents of Berkeley and Dorchester Counties in South Carolina by providing scholarships for education at Winthrop and Clemson Universities. Managed by the Coastal Community Foundation, the fund exemplifies community commitment, addressing pressing needs through strategic grantmaking and fostering local initiatives. This initiative reflects a dedication to equity and opportunity, ensuring that deserving students can pursue their academic goals and contribute positively to their communities.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Phillip O’Neill Hanvey Memorial Scholarship Fund

Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina
Private
Charleston County, South Carolina
US $1,500 - US $2,000
The Phillip O’Neill Hanvey Memorial Scholarship Fund, established in 1963 and managed by the Coastal Community Foundation since 1990, aims to support Charleston County students in their pursuit of higher education. Through this fund, the Foundation enhances educational opportunities, demonstrating its commitment to fostering equitable access and community well-being. This initiative is part of a broader mission to invest in community resources that help address structural challenges and promote a brighter future for the region's youth.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Leah Read and Seymour I.Barkowitz Scholarship Fund

Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina
Private
Berkeley County, South Carolina, Charleston County, South Carolina +1 more
Approximately US $750
The Leah Read and Seymour I. Barkowitz Scholarship Fund, established in 1988, supports students from Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties pursuing a four-year degree at the College of Charleston. This annual scholarship, funded by the Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina, aims to empower local students by providing financial assistance for their educational aspirations. The foundation’s commitment to community well-being and educational equity is exemplified through this targeted funding initiative.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

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 $3.34B 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

600+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Food Access & Hunger

1,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness

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
29.7%
Q2
24.7%
Q3
23.5%
Q4
22.1%

Typical Funding Amounts

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

Grants are most commonly $32,500.

$0 $0 Min.
$32,500 $32.5 K Median
$633,837 $633.8 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 29.7% 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 $32,500, while the average grant awarded is $633,837. 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.