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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

Mayor’s Youth Scholarship

Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta
Private
DeKalb County, Georgia, Fulton County, Georgia
Unspecified amount
The Mayor's Youth Scholarship, established in 2005 by the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta, aims to alleviate financial barriers for students pursuing higher education. By providing crucial financial support, it empowers eligible students from Atlanta Public Schools or residents of Atlanta to enroll in accredited institutions. This initiative enhances access to college, fostering educational and economic mobility while promoting equity in the community. The scholarship opens doors to new opportunities, directly impacting students' futures and encouraging local donors' engagement.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Local Shelter/Agency Support Grant

Ms Molly Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Ms. Molly Foundation provides essential support for domestic violence victims through the Local Shelter/Agency Support Grant. Established in 1996, the foundation aims to raise awareness and assist local agencies committed to helping victims find safety and empowerment. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit shelters that partner with Molly Maid franchises. By addressing the cycle of violence, the foundation strives to create healthier family environments and restore hope to those affected.
Domestic Violence

Robert C. White Trust Grant

RC WHITE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH O
Private
Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania
Approximately US $4,000
The Robert C. White Trust Grant aims to foster rowing among pre-collegiate students in the Schuylkill River area of Pennsylvania. Established by Dr. Robert C. White, the trust supports organizations that promote fitness and teamwork through rowing. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations that have been operational for at least five years and have a proven commitment to youth participation in rowing. This grant ensures that the sport thrives at the grassroots level.
Recreational Water Use & Boating

Farallon Islands Foundation Grant

Farallon Islands Foundation
Private
San Francisco County, California
US $5,000 - US $10,000
The Farallon Islands Foundation Grant supports projects focused on island and ocean conservation, including research, maintenance, and public education. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $10,000. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations in the U.S., but partnerships with U.S.-based non-profits are encouraged for those who do not meet this criterion. Applications are accepted year-round, with no formal deadlines.
Marine / Ocean Conservation

Mary Gourlay Charitable Trust Grant

Gourlay Mary Charitable Trust
Private
Pennsylvania
Approximately US $5,000
The Mary Gourlay Charitable Trust Grant, established in 2017, aims to support institutions that assist the blind in Pennsylvania, particularly in Philadelphia. The trust honors Mary Gourlay and is dedicated to funding projects in arts, education, health, and human services. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt, while grants are strictly for supporting blind persons. Notably, salaries are not covered by this funding, ensuring resources directly benefit the intended beneficiaries.
Vision Impairment Care & Services

Clee K. Morrison Foundation Grant

Clee K Morrison Foundation
Private
Cumberland County, Pennsylvania
Approximately US $5,000
The Clee K. Morrison Foundation, established by a dedicated resident of Mechanicsburg, PA, supports charitable organizations assisting underprivileged individuals in Cumberland County. Annually, the foundation awards approximately two grants, each around $5000, through its trustees at Wells Fargo Bank. Eligible organizations must qualify as public charities under Section 501(c)(3) and meet the needs of those in the local community.
Basic Human Needs Poverty Alleviation & Services

Supreme Basketball Player Scholarship

Supreme Basketball
Association/Society
Nebraska
Unspecified amount
The Supreme Basketball Player Scholarship is designed to provide financial assistance to young athletes in Nebraska and surrounding states. This initiative by Supreme Basketball ensures that no child is turned away from basketball programs due to financial constraints. With a focus on player development, the scholarship supports youth from Pre-K to 12th grade, allowing them to participate in camps, clinics, and select club teams, fostering their skills and passion for the game.
Basketball After School / Summer Educational Programs

Karl A. Bickel and Madira Bickel Journalistic Scholarship Fund

Karl A Bickel Charitable Trust
Private
United States
Approximately US $40,000
The Karl A. Bickel and Madira Bickel Journalistic Scholarship Fund supports journalism education by providing grants to accredited colleges and universities with journalism programs. Established from Karl A. Bickel's Last Will and Testament, the fund aims to assist deserving students in their pursuit of journalism, ensuring they receive the necessary financial backing to succeed in their studies and future careers.
Journalism

Uncommon Leader Impact Award

Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation
Private
Cass County, Missouri, Clay County, Missouri +4 more
US $50,000 - US $100,000
The Uncommon Leader Impact Award, presented by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, honors non-C-suite employees at 501(c)(3) public charities making significant contributions to economic mobility in Kansas City. Awarded biennially, it recognizes those demonstrating community impact, equity, collaboration, and innovation. In December, one recipient will receive $50,000 and $100,000 for their organization, underscoring the foundation's commitment to fostering sustainable change and uplifting underrepresented voices within the community.
Volunteerism & Philanthropy Nonprofit Growth & Development

Hildur H. Michel Charitable Trust Grant

Hildur H. Michel Charitable Trust
Private
Texas
US $3,000 - US $5,000
The Hildur H. Michel Charitable Trust Grant supports organizations assisting individuals who are blind and visually impaired, primarily in Texas, particularly El Paso. Grants range from $3,000 to $5,000 and are awarded annually to 3-5 qualified 501(c)(3) organizations. The foundation does not typically fund requests for salaries not related to program support, ensuring that funds are directed towards meaningful programmatic efforts.
Vision Impairment Care & Services

Bruce and Cecilia Petersen Foundation Trust Grant

The Bruce And Cecilia Petersen Foundation Trust
Private
Utah
Unspecified amount
The Bruce and Cecilia Petersen Foundation Trust, established in 2015, aims to alleviate poverty in Utah, reflecting the philanthropic spirit of its founders, Jerry Bruce Petersen and Cecilia. The Trust, managed by Wells Fargo Bank, awards annual grants to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations, with a focus on impactful community support. However, it does not fund requests from certain groups, including The Salvation Army and any church-affiliated charities, ensuring its resources directly assist those in need.
Poverty Alleviation & Services Basic Human Needs

Fairwinds Foundation Grants

Fairwinds Foundation Inc
Private
Brevard County, Florida, Lake County, Florida +5 more
Unspecified amount
The FAIRWINDS Foundation Grants support Central Florida's economically vulnerable populations, including homeless youth and veterans, by providing philanthropic grants aimed at enhancing financial literacy. Organizations applying must align with the foundation's priorities and demonstrate a solid financial position along with measurable community impact. This initiative fosters growth and well-being in the community, making a significant difference in the lives of those in need.
Financial Literacy

Willmoth Family Scholarship

The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth
Private
Texas
US $1,000
The Willmoth Family Scholarship, established in 2025 by Seth and Tamara Willmoth at the University of North Texas Health Science Center, awards $1,000 annually to economically disadvantaged first-year PA students with a 4.0 science GPA. This scholarship aims to support students who excelled in their undergraduate studies, fostering future healthcare leaders. UNTHSC, located in Fort Worth, offers over 100 scholarships annually to promote academic excellence and leadership within its health professions programs.
Education - Higher Education Medical Education & Professional Training

Balmes Family Trust Grant

Balmes Foundation
Private
Imperial County, California, Kern County, California +8 more
Unspecified amount
The Balmes Family Trust Grant, established by Robert L. and Margaret K. Balmes, aims to support organizations that assist military personnel who have lost limbs and those enhancing life in Southern California. Founded in 2004, the trust embodies Mr. Balmes's legacy as a pioneer in Homeowner Association Management. It prioritizes funding for 501(c)(3) organizations in California, ensuring a positive impact on the community and honoring the sacrifices of veterans.
Health & Medicine Human & Social Services Military & Veterans Services

Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Topical PCORI Funding

Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount
The Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Topical PCORI Funding aims to support high-quality, patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research (CER) focusing on individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This funding opportunity recognizes the diversity of conditions under IDD and the varying support needs among individuals. PCORI encourages the use of both person-first and identity-first language, acknowledging the preferences within the disability community, and aims to enhance the quality of healthcare delivery for these populations.
Intellectual / Developmental Disabilities

Free Tax Prep Coalition Grants

United Way Of Southwestern Pennsylvania
Private
Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, Armstrong County, Pennsylvania +3 more
Unspecified amount
The Free Tax Prep Coalition (FTPC), funded by United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania, aims to provide high-quality tax preparation assistance to families and individuals through the IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. This initiative supports income-eligible individuals, including those with disabilities, limited English proficiency, and military families. FTPC seeks partners to enhance its outreach and effectiveness in delivering these essential services within the community.
Financial Literacy

Edward W. and Stella C. Van Houten Memorial Fund Grant

E And S Van Houten Memorial Fund
Private
New Jersey
US $5,000 - US $15,000
The Edward W. and Stella C. Van Houten Memorial Fund Grant, established in 1978 in New Jersey, supports health, education, and human services. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt to apply, with a deadline of August 1 for September meetings. The foundation prioritizes agencies serving sick or disabled individuals, orphaned children, and those in the nursing profession. Scholarships and educational initiatives are also funded, benefiting Bergen and Passaic Counties.
Education Health Care Access & Delivery Human & Social Services

AOFAS Resident Scholarship Program

American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society Inc
Private
Canada, United States
Unspecified amount
The AOFAS Resident Scholarship Program provides orthopaedic residents from the US and Canada the opportunity to attend the AOFAS Annual Meeting 2025 in Savannah, Georgia. Covering registration fees, lodging, and transportation, this program supports residents interested in foot and ankle surgery. Eligible applicants are PGY1, PGY2, or PGY3 residents who can attend the full program on September 10-11. This unique experience allows networking with leading surgeons and gaining insights into foot and ankle procedures.
Academic Scholarship Programs Orthopedics

UPMC Hand Surgery Fellowship Program

Upmc
Private
Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The UPMC Hand Surgery Fellowship Program offers a comprehensive one-year training experience in hand surgery, combining academic and private practice settings. This ACGME-accredited fellowship allows residents from Plastic Surgery, Orthopaedic Surgery, and General Surgery backgrounds to collaborate and gain diverse clinical experience. Trainees will engage in joint conferences and surgical procedures, progressively increasing their responsibility. By the end of the fellowship, participants will be proficient in microsurgical techniques and upper extremity reconstruction, guided by experienced faculty.
Surgery Orthopedics

Kathryn Cramer Early Career Research Development Award

Ao North America Inc
Private
Canada, United States
Up to US $35,000
The Kathryn Cramer Early Career Research Development Award provides essential start-up funding for orthopedic trauma surgeons in the U.S. and Canada, who have completed their fellowship within the last five years. This award aims to support innovative research projects that can be accomplished within two years, fostering professional development and collaboration among surgeons. Applicants must be members of AO Trauma and demonstrate early success in their research endeavors.
Orthopedics Medical Education & Professional Training

Henry Hanff Fellowship Award

Ao North America Inc
Private
Europe, North America
Up to US $5,900
The Henry Hanff Fellowship Award offers a unique opportunity for practicing North American trauma surgeons to enhance their skills through a short-term fellowship at a trauma clinic in North America or Europe. Sponsored by AO North America, the fellowship lasts four to eight weeks and covers airfare and a stipend for living expenses, with a total award not exceeding $5,900. Participants must submit a report on their experience for publication, enhancing professional development and collaboration.
Orthopedics Medical Education & Professional Training

Martin Allgöwer Memorial Fellowship

Ao North America Inc
Private
Europe
More than US $1,500
The Martin Allgöwer Memorial Fellowship is a prestigious award designed for practicing North American surgeons specializing in orthopedic trauma. This fellowship provides funding for a short-term experience at an AO trauma clinic in Europe, covering travel expenses and a monthly stipend. It promotes the exchange of ideas between North American and European practitioners, enhancing professional development and clinical skills. Participants are expected to engage actively in the clinic and report on their experiences for publication.
Medical Education & Professional Training Orthopedics

John Border Memorial Fellowship

Ao North America Inc
Private
Europe
More than US $1,500
The John Border Memorial Fellowship offers North American orthopedic residents a unique opportunity to gain experience in European trauma clinics. Funded by AO Trauma North America, this fellowship lasts from one to three months, covering travel and living expenses. Recipients will present their experiences and may be invited to speak at future courses, enhancing professional development and fostering international collaboration in orthopedic trauma care.
Medical Education & Professional Training Orthopedics

MCSF- Undergraduate & Associate Degree Scholarship

Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation
Private
United States
US $2,500 - US $10,000
The MCSF- Undergraduate & Associate Degree Scholarship is designed to support the children of Marines and Navy Corpsmen pursuing undergraduate education. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.00. This scholarship can cover various educational expenses such as tuition, books, and transportation. It is an excellent opportunity for those who meet the eligibility criteria and are committed to furthering their education, while honoring the legacy of service in the Marine Corps.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Animal Food Regulatory Program Standards Implementation Development and Maintenance, with Mutual Reliance Initiatives Clinical Trials Not Allowed

US Department of Health & Human Services: Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Federal Government
United States
Up to US $300,000
The Animal Food Regulatory Program Standards Implementation Development and Maintenance initiative aims to enhance the national animal food safety system. This funding opportunity supports state regulatory programs in achieving and sustaining the Animal Food Regulatory Program Standards (AFRPS) within five years. By fostering collaboration with the FDA and standardizing regulatory processes, this initiative seeks to improve food safety, promote compliance, and mitigate foodborne illnesses, ultimately creating a more integrated food safety framework.
Animal Food & Drug Safety

YMCA of San Diego County Access Financial Assistance Program

YMCA of San Diego County
Private
San Diego County, California
Unspecified amount
The YMCA of San Diego County offers a Financial Aid Program through its ACCESS scholarship initiative, ensuring that everyone has the chance to participate in its community services. This program provides financial support to reduce membership, program, and childcare costs based on individual financial situations. Funded by generous donations from the Annual Campaign, it aims to serve those in need by utilizing a sliding fee scale for qualified applicants.
Child Care Services

Pasadena Art Alliance Grant

Pasadena Art Alliance
Private
Imperial County, California, Kern County, California +8 more
Unspecified amount
The Pasadena Art Alliance Grant supports contemporary visual arts in Southern California by funding innovative projects and educational programs. Established in 1955, this independent organization prioritizes grants for unconventional institutions and champions diverse artistic expressions. With over $8 million awarded since 1976, the PAA fosters community engagement and understanding of contemporary art. Preference is given to organizations located in the San Gabriel Valley, ensuring a focused impact on local art initiatives.
Visual Arts Public / Community Art

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.

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