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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

Wausau Area Builders Association Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin
Private
Langlade County, Wisconsin, Marathon County, Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Wausau Area Builders Association Scholarship provides vital financial support to graduating seniors from high schools in communities served by the WABA. With over $300,000 awarded annually to more than 200 students, this scholarship honors Shirley Kruesel's legacy and encourages community service and involvement. Applicants should have a minimum GPA of 2.5, with a preference for those pursuing careers in the building trades or those with family ties to WABA members.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Mendocino Agricultural Families’ Scholarship Fund (Winegrowers’ Scholarship Fund)

Community Foundation of Mendocino County Inc.
Private
Mendocino County, California
Unspecified amount
The Mendocino Agricultural Families’ Scholarship Fund, established by the Mendocino Winegrowers Alliance and the Savings Bank of Mendocino County, aims to support local students from agricultural families pursuing higher education. This scholarship recognizes the vital contributions of the agricultural workforce in Mendocino County. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher, and be children of agricultural workers in specific industries. The fund fosters educational advancement for deserving students.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

SEED Grants

Robins Foundation
Private
Chesterfield County, Virginia, Henrico County, Virginia +1 more
Up to US $25,000
The SEED Grants, provided by the Robins Foundation, aim to enhance early childhood care and education (ECCE) for children aged prenatal to five. With flexible funding of up to $25,000, these grants support small nonprofit providers in Richmond City and surrounding areas to address urgent needs. Eligible organizations can use the funds for playground equipment, teacher development, and updated teaching materials. This initiative strengthens families and fosters long-term community impact through quality early learning experiences.
Early Childhood Development Teacher Development & Training

Nash Bartolomie Industrial Arts Scholarship

Community Foundation of Mendocino County Inc.
Private
Mendocino County, California
Unspecified amount
The Nash Bartolomie Industrial Arts Scholarship, established by friends and family, supports students pursuing careers in industrial arts. Offered by the Community Foundation of Mendocino County, this scholarship aims to assist local students with a GPA of 2.5 or higher who demonstrate passion and creativity in fields like carpentry, electronics, and welding. Financial need is considered, and applicants must submit a picture of their industrial art work. This initiative fosters educational and professional development in the community.
Academic Scholarship Programs Vocational & Trade Education

OjO-Dor Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin
Private
Oneida County, Wisconsin
US $1,000
The OjO-Dor Scholarship offers post-secondary educational support to deserving high school seniors from the Lakeland School District in Minocqua, Wisconsin. With over $300,000 allocated across more than 200 scholarships, the program recognizes academic achievement, financial need, future potential, and leadership capabilities. Students may be invited for interviews during the selection process, fostering opportunities for local youth to pursue higher education and enhance their future prospects.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Carol Hoops Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northcentral Wisconsin Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin
Private
Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Carol Hoops Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northcentral Wisconsin Scholarship provides essential financial support to graduating seniors, GED graduates, and both traditional and non-traditional college students from Northcentral Wisconsin. This scholarship aims to empower students involved with the Big Brothers Big Sisters program for at least six months, helping them pursue their educational and career aspirations. With over $300,000 in scholarships awarded annually, the initiative significantly enhances the quality of life in the community.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Penserra/Madrigal Family Scholarship

Community Foundation of Mendocino County Inc.
Private
Mendocino County, California
Unspecified amount
The Penserra/Madrigal Family Scholarship, established by Jorge Madrigal and Penserra Financial Ventures LLC, aims to honor la familia Madrigal by encouraging entrepreneurism. It provides financial support to seniors who are first, second, or third-generation immigrants in Mendocino County. The scholarship prioritizes students demonstrating ambition through sports, community involvement, or employment, with a GPA requirement of 3.0 or higher, ensuring accessibility for those in need as they pursue higher education.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Sandy Westman Mayfield Vocational Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation of Mendocino County Inc.
Private
Lake County, California, Mendocino County, California
Unspecified amount
The Sandy Westman Mayfield Vocational Scholarship Fund, established by Sandra and John Mayfield, Jr., supports high school and reentry students pursuing vocational careers, particularly in cosmetology. Managed by the Community Foundation of Mendocino County, this scholarship provides vital opportunities for local students in Mendocino and Lake Counties, emphasizing the importance of vocational training and career readiness in the community.
Academic Scholarship Programs Vocational & Trade Education

Skye Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation of Mendocino County Inc.
Private
Mendocino County, California
Unspecified amount
The Skye Scholarship Fund, established by Valerie and Nick Brownrigg, supports Mendocino County high school graduates who have overcome adversity to pursue higher education. This scholarship aims to empower altruistic students with a GPA between 2.0 and 3.5, demonstrating financial need and a commitment to community involvement. Since 2016, it has been instrumental in helping local youth achieve their educational goals and make a positive impact in the world.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

AROW Global Corporation Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin
Private
Wisconsin
Up to US $1,500
The AROW Global Corporation Scholarship, established in 2022, provides up to $1,500 for high school seniors from central Wisconsin. This scholarship supports students who plan to attend accredited colleges, universities, or technical schools in any field. A total of over $300,000 in scholarships will be awarded to more than 200 students through the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin, enhancing educational opportunities and community growth.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

AROW Global Corporation: AROW Family Members Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin
Private
Wisconsin
Up to US $5,000
The AROW Family Members Scholarship, funded by the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin, offers scholarships up to $5,000 for family members of AROW employees. Established in 2022, it supports students pursuing post-secondary education in engineering or other fields. Eligibility includes being a high school senior accepted into college or technical school. Over $300,000 in scholarships will be awarded to more than 200 students from the region, enhancing educational opportunities and community growth.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Fred and Susan Breidenbach Scholarship

Community Foundation of the Lowcountry
Private
Beaufort County, South Carolina, Colleton County, South Carolina +2 more
Unspecified amount
The Fred and Susan Breidenbach Scholarship, funded by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, offers financial support to graduating high school seniors or undergraduate students who are dependents of Gulfstream Aerospace employees. Established to recognize academic excellence, this scholarship program reflects the Breidenbachs' commitment to education and their appreciation for the dedication of Gulfstream employees during challenging times. Since 1995, it has provided essential assistance to those pursuing higher education, helping to alleviate tuition costs.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Gulfstream Goldie Glenn Scholarship

Community Foundation of the Lowcountry
Private
Beaufort County, South Carolina, Colleton County, South Carolina +2 more
Unspecified amount
The Gulfstream Goldie Glenn Scholarship, funded by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, honors academic excellence among high school seniors who are dependents of Gulfstream employees. Established to pay tribute to Albert H. "Goldie" Glenn, a leader in the aircraft industry, this scholarship aims to alleviate tuition costs for students with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Since its inception, it has supported the educational aspirations of local students, furthering their opportunities in higher education.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Ira P. Berman Gulfstream Scholarship

Community Foundation of the Lowcountry
Private
Beaufort County, South Carolina, Colleton County, South Carolina +2 more
Unspecified amount
The Ira P. Berman Gulfstream Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, supports the educational goals of children and dependents of Gulfstream employees. It honors Ira P. Berman, a distinguished leader in Gulfstream Aerospace. Eligible applicants include high school seniors and full-time college students enrolled in accredited institutions. The scholarship emphasizes academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and financial need, providing crucial assistance to those looking to reduce tuition costs without relying on student loans.
Academic Scholarship Programs Education - Higher Education

Muenster, Theodore R. and Marcelene R. Scholarship

Beatrice Educational Foundation
Association/Society
Gage County, Nebraska
Unspecified amount
The Muenster, Theodore R. and Marcelene R. Scholarship is offered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, which supports educational opportunities for Beatrice High School graduates. This scholarship is designated for students attending the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, with priority given to those demonstrating financial need and being the first in their family to attend college. Annually, the foundation provides over $55,000 in scholarships, contributing to a $3.8 million endowment fund.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Career Awareness Grants

Champaign Urbana Schools Foundation
Association/Society
Champaign County, Illinois
US $500 - US $3,000

About CU Schools FoundationSince 1990, CU Schools Foundation has accepted applications from educators in the Champaign and Urbana public schools, and awarded MORE THAN A MILLION DOLLARS based on these proposals. We fund a broad spectrum of projects to help children of all ages and all levels of accomplishment.Career Awareness GrantsThis grant supports career exploration in K-12. Grants are from $500.00 to $3,000.00. Collaboration with community partners (industry, university, businesses, etc.) is encouraged.  

Career / College Preparation

Patience W. Norman Prize for Teacher Excellence

Maine Community Foundation
Private
Androscoggin County, Maine, Kennebec County, Maine +1 more
US $5,000
The Patience W. Norman Prize for Teacher Excellence, established by the Maine Community Foundation, honors full-time teachers in MSAD 52 who inspire academic excellence and emulate the educational philosophy of Patience Norman. Eligible nominees must have a minimum of five years of service and demonstrate creativity, leadership, and a commitment to student success. This award aims to promote teacher retention by recognizing exemplary educators and their impactful contributions to the community.
Teacher Development & Training Academic Success & Enrichment

Esther & Lucie Harmon and Leta Sabin Trepal Scholarship

Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut
Private
Connecticut
Unspecified amount
The Esther & Lucie Harmon and Leta Sabin Trepal Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports Eastford residents pursuing post-secondary education in any field. This fund particularly encourages non-traditional students returning to education, emphasizing the importance of academic achievement and strong character. Since 1983, the Foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships, reflecting its commitment to enriching the lives of local students and fostering educational success.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

DTRF + Thurgood Marshall College Fund Scholarship

Descendants Truth & Reconciliation Foundation
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $10,000
The DTRF + Thurgood Marshall College Fund Scholarship, offered by the Descendants Truth & Reconciliation Foundation, provides annual need-based scholarships of up to $10,000 for Certified Descendants of Jesuit slaveholding. This initiative aims to support educational advancement at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and other post-secondary institutions, while promoting racial healing and minimizing the wealth gap within the Descendant community.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Jack Berno Hope For Our Future Scholarship

Adena Health System
Private
Fayette County, Ohio, Highland County, Ohio +7 more
Unspecified amount
The Jack Berno Hope For Our Future Scholarship, offered by Adena Health System, supports high school students in their pursuit of healthcare careers. This scholarship is available to dependents of Adena caregivers and encourages applicants from various fields, provided they aim to work in healthcare post-graduation. Students must reside in Adena’s nine-county service area, demonstrating academic excellence with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or equivalent GED scores. This initiative fosters the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Hope For Our Future Scholarships: G. Howard Wood, MD, Medical and Nursing Student Loan Trust Fund

Adena Health System
Private
Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Hope For Our Future Scholarships, offered by the Adena Health Foundation, support students pursuing careers in healthcare-related fields. Eligible applicants include those studying medicine, nursing, or allied health professions, particularly from the Chillicothe and Ross County areas. With a focus on inclusivity, scholarships are available to individuals with a minimum GPA of 3.0. This initiative aims to enhance career opportunities in a sector poised for growth, benefiting both students and the community.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Hope For Our Future Scholarships: Cindy Drummond Commemorative Scholarship Fund

Adena Health System
Private
Fayette County, Ohio, Highland County, Ohio +7 more
Unspecified amount
The Hope For Our Future Scholarships, established by the Adena Health Foundation, support students in non-clinical healthcare fields. Applicants must reside in one of the nine counties served by Adena Health and maintain a GPA of at least 3.0. This initiative aims to foster careers in healthcare-related disciplines, ensuring that local students have access to educational resources that prepare them for essential roles in the community.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Hope For Our Future Scholarships: Adena Health Foundation Scholarship Endowment

Adena Health System
Private
Fayette County, Ohio, Highland County, Ohio +7 more
Unspecified amount
The Adena Health Foundation offers the Hope For Our Future Scholarships to support high school students in pursuing careers in healthcare. Available to residents of nine Ohio counties, these scholarships welcome applicants from diverse educational backgrounds, including nursing, finance, and human resources. With a minimum GPA requirement of 3.0, the foundation emphasizes equal opportunity in its awarding process, ensuring all eligible students can access funding for their education in a supportive environment.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Hope For Our Future Scholarships: Gordon F. Streicher Memorial Scholarship Endowment

Adena Health System
Private
Fayette County, Ohio, Highland County, Ohio +7 more
Unspecified amount
The Hope For Our Future Scholarships, provided by the Adena Health Foundation, support high school students from nine Ohio counties pursuing degrees in medical laboratory professions. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of at least 3.0 and reside within the service area. This scholarship aims to foster careers in healthcare, offering financial assistance to future doctors, nurses, and other vital roles within the health system. Apply to become a part of Adena Health's legacy of community care.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

BISCUITS Grant

Southern Vision Alliance
Private
United States
Up to US $5,000
The BISCUITS Grant, offered by Southern Vision Alliance, provides up to $5,000 to organizations with budgets under $300,000 that focus on building power through organizing and collective action. Recipients gain access to a supportive cohort and networking opportunities. Participation in two virtual gatherings and a $500 wellness stipend is included. This grant is aimed at new applicants or those who have submitted their final QMF reports, ensuring support for emerging grassroots organizations.
Business Development Nonprofit Growth & Development

Juanita Sánchez Community Fund Grants

The Rhode Island Community Foundation
Private
Rhode Island
US $500 - US $1,500
The Juanita Sánchez Community Fund, established in 1992, supports Rhode Island's Latino community by providing grants to nonprofits that enhance the lives of Latinos. Grants typically range from $500 to $1,500 and can fund both new projects and improvements to ongoing initiatives. While translation and interpretation requests are deprioritized, projects serving the Latino community may be considered, even if based outside the state. Renewed support for the same project is rarely given.
Hispanic and Latino Services

Chris P. Lo Pinto Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation of Mendocino County Inc.
Private
Mendocino County, California
Unspecified amount
The Chris P. Lo Pinto Memorial Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of Mendocino County, offers financial support to high school and college students aspiring to careers in law enforcement or probation. Applicants must be county residents with a minimum GPA of 2.5 and demonstrate a commitment to community service in relevant fields. This scholarship aims to nurture the next generation of public safety professionals in Mendocino County.
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 $3.43B 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.