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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

Foundation for Choral Music in Manitoba: Emergency Grant

Foundation for Choral Music in Manitoba
Private
Canada
Up to C $2,000
The Foundation for Choral Music in Manitoba offers an Emergency Grant to assist choirs in unforeseen circumstances that jeopardize their projects. This initiative encourages choral activities across the province, promoting professional development and enhancing choral music education. Eligible applicants include individuals and organizations, with support from registered charities as needed. The grant aims to foster creativity and strengthen the choral community in Manitoba, ensuring these groups can continue to thrive despite unexpected challenges.
Music

Freedom School Planning Grants

New Jersey Department of State: Office of Faith Based Initiatives
State/Local Government
New Jersey
Up to US $15,000
The Freedom School Planning Grants, offered by the New Jersey Office of Faith Based Initiatives, aim to support organizations launching NJ Freedom Schools. These grants assist in developing organizational capacity and recruiting certified teachers to help students struggling academically. Additionally, they provide resources for a parent academy focused on employment readiness, mental health services, and connecting families to community resources, ultimately fostering academic success and community engagement.
Education - K through 12 Academic Success & Enrichment

NJ Hispanic Entrepreneurship Assistance Grant Program

New Jersey Department of State: Center for Hispanic Policy, Research and Development (CHPRD)
State/Local Government
New Jersey
Up to US $75,000
The NJ Hispanic Entrepreneurship Assistance Grant Program supports the growth of Hispanic businesses by providing culturally relevant education and mentorship. Managed by the Center for Hispanic Policy, Research and Development (CHPRD), this initiative aims to empower new entrepreneurs and enhance community development. Eligible applicants can seek funding for multiple programs, focusing on enhancing public-private partnerships and training opportunities. This grant is essential for fostering economic stability within the Hispanic community, promoting leadership, and ensuring long-term success.
Hispanic and Latino Services Hispanic and Latino Culture & Heritage

Ray Yoshida Kauai Fine Arts Scholarship

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Kauai County, Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Ray Yoshida Kauai Fine Arts Scholarship, established in 2006 by renowned artist Raymond Yoshida, supports Hawaii residents pursuing fine arts. Eligible applicants must be high school seniors from Kauai with a minimum GPA of 2.7 and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship honors Yoshida's legacy of artistic education and aims to empower the next generation of artists from Hawaii.
Fine Art

Philippine Nurses' Association Hawaii Foundation Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Philippine Nurses' Association Hawaii Foundation Scholarship Fund, established in 2005, aims to support Hawai'i residents of Filipino ancestry. It promotes educational opportunities for those who demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5 while attending a college or university in Hawaii. Preference is given to recipients who were awarded in the previous year and continue to meet eligibility criteria. The fund is administered by the Hawai'i Community Foundation, which advocates for equity and generosity within the community.
Nursing

Perry & Sally Sorenson Scholarship Fund - Foster Youth

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Perry & Sally Sorenson Scholarship Fund supports foster youth in Hawai'i who demonstrate financial need. Established in 2005, it assists individuals aged 18 to 25 who have aged out of the foster care system, requiring a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to prior recipients who continue to meet eligibility criteria. This initiative aims to empower young adults transitioning from foster care to pursue higher education and build a better future.
Child Foster Care & Adoption Services

Pat Shinobu Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Pat Shinobu Scholarship Fund, established in 2015 by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, aims to support students from Hawai‘i pursuing higher education. Eligible applicants must be full-time undergraduate students with a minimum GPA of 2.7, demonstrate financial need, and provide a recommendation letter. Preference is given to public high school graduates from Hawai'i Island and previous recipients who maintain eligibility. This fund fosters educational opportunities and equity within the community.
Academic Success & Enrichment Academic Scholarship Programs

Sam and Pauline Suemi Leong Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Approximately US $6,000
The Sam and Pauline Suemi Leong Scholarship Fund, established in 2016 by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, supports students pursuing higher education in Hawaii. This renewable scholarship is awarded based on financial need and academic performance, with average awards around $6,000. Eligible applicants must be Hawaii residents, first-generation college students, and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. This initiative aims to empower local students and foster educational opportunities within the community.
Education - Higher Education Teacher Development & Training

Ouida Mundy Hill Memorial Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Ouida Mundy Hill Memorial Fund, established in 2001, offers scholarships to Hawaii students demonstrating financial need and academic excellence. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 and be residents of Hawaii. Preference is given to previous awardees who continue to meet eligibility criteria. This fund aims to support the educational journey of deserving students, ensuring they have access to post-secondary education opportunities.
Academic Success & Enrichment Academic Scholarship Programs

Oahu Filipino Community Council Golf Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Oahu Filipino Community Council Golf Scholarship Fund, established in 2003, supports Hawaii residents of Filipino ancestry. Applicants must maintain a 2.0 GPA, demonstrate financial need, and be residents of Hawaii. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility criteria. This initiative fosters educational advancement within the Filipino community, encouraging academic excellence and financial support to eligible students pursuing their goals.
Asian American Services

Neil Tepper Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Neil Tepper Scholarship Fund, established in 2012, aims to support Hawai'i residents facing financial need while pursuing a four-year college degree. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, demonstrate academic merit, and attend an accredited institution. The fund also favors recipients who were awarded the scholarship in the previous year, provided they continue to meet the eligibility criteria. This initiative reflects Neil Tepper's legacy in fostering education and personal growth in the community.
Academic Success & Enrichment Academic Scholarship Programs

Robert E. Lucas Memorial Fund

Clinton County Foundation
Private
Clinton County, Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Robert E. Lucas Memorial Fund, managed by the Clinton County Foundation, provides support to nonprofit organizations serving children and youth in Clinton County. Established in honor of Dr. Robert Lucas, a community leader and educator, the fund seeks innovative projects that foster collaboration among organizations. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and tax-exempt groups based in the area, with a focus on new approaches to enhance community initiatives.
Youth Development & Leadership

Margaret Follett Haskins (Maui) Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii County, Hawaii, Honolulu County, Hawaii +1 more
Unspecified amount
The Margaret Follett Haskins (Maui) Scholarship Fund, established in honor of a dedicated educator, aims to support Hawaii residents pursuing higher education. Eligible applicants include undergraduate juniors or seniors at the University of Hawaii Maui College with a minimum 3.0 GPA and financial need. Preference is given to past recipients who maintain eligibility. This initiative reflects Haskins' belief in the transformative power of education, providing vital assistance to deserving students in their academic journeys.
Pharmacology Medical Education & Professional Training

Margaret Follett Haskins (Hawai‘i) Scholarship

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii County, Hawaii, Honolulu County, Hawaii +1 more
Unspecified amount
The Margaret Follett Haskins Scholarship, established in memory of a dedicated educator, supports residents of Hawai‘i who have graduated from a community college and plan to further their studies at a University of Hawaii campus. This scholarship prioritizes applicants with a minimum GPA of 3.5 and demonstrated financial need. Recipients from the previous year are given preference if they continue to meet eligibility requirements. This initiative fosters educational advancement and honors Margaret's commitment to learning.
Pharmacology Medical Education & Professional Training

Lannice and Kevin Chang Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Kauai County, Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Lannice and Kevin Chang Scholarship Fund, established in 2022, aims to support students from Kauai, Hawaii. Applicants must be Hawaii residents demonstrating financial need and maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to prior recipients who continue to meet eligibility requirements. This initiative by the Hawai'i Community Foundation underscores a commitment to educational support for local students, fostering academic success and community growth.
Academic Success & Enrichment Academic Scholarship Programs

Kim Coco League of Extraordinary Scholars

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Kim Coco League of Extraordinary Scholars was established in 2017 to provide support for transgender students in Hawaii who are in good academic standing. This scholarship aims to assist those who demonstrate financial need and meet specific eligibility criteria, including maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0 and being graduates of Hawaii public high schools. By fostering educational opportunities for gender-diverse individuals, the scholarship promotes inclusivity and empowerment within the community.
LGBTQIA+ Services Academic Scholarship Programs

CSX Charitable Investments- Pride in Service Grants

Csx Foundation Inc
Private
Alabama, Canada +25 more
US $2,500 - US $25,000
CSX Charitable Investments offers the Pride in Service Grants to support organizations that honor and assist military members and first responders. Focus areas include safety, mental health, community bridging, workforce development, and addressing food insecurity. Eligible organizations include those with 501(c)(3) status, government entities, and educational institutions. Grants aim to uplift communities and recognize the contributions of those who serve, while ensuring alignment with specific charitable criteria.
Military & Veterans Services First Responders

K.M. Hatano Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The K.M. Hatano Scholarship Fund, established in 1987 by Mr. Yasuji Hatano, supports academically excellent individuals from Maui, Lanai, and Molokai who demonstrate leadership and community involvement. Eligible applicants must be Hawaii residents with financial need and a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to previous recipients and those pursuing business management or visitor industry majors. This scholarship fosters educational advancement and community engagement among Hawaii's youth.
Academic Scholarship Programs Business Education

John Dawe Dental Education Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The John Dawe Dental Education Fund honors Dr. John H. Dawe's dedication to the dental community in Hawai'i. It supports students pursuing dentistry or related fields, emphasizing financial need and good academic standing. Eligible applicants must be residents of Hawai'i and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to past recipients who continue to meet these criteria. This fund aims to foster the next generation of dental professionals in the region.
Dental Health Medical Education & Professional Training

Jean Estes Epstein Charitable Foundation Scholarship

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Jean Estes Epstein Charitable Foundation Scholarship supports public school students from Hawaii in their pursuit of higher education on the mainland U.S. Established by Jean Estes Epstein in 2007, the scholarship aims to enhance educational experiences by exposing students to diverse environments. Eligible candidates must be Hawaii residents, graduating from public high schools with a minimum GPA of 3.7, and demonstrate financial need while being full-time college freshmen.
Academic Success & Enrichment Academic Scholarship Programs

Spotlight Fund: Arts Grants

Adopt-A-Classroom Inc
Private
United States
US $500 - US $5,000
The Spotlight Fund: Arts Grants support K-12 educators by providing funding for essential tools and materials to enhance art education. With grants ranging from $500 to $1,000 per educator, the program prioritizes educators in high-needs schools, fostering creativity and reducing dropout rates among at-risk youth. By engaging children in various art forms, the initiative enriches their educational experience and opens up future possibilities. This targeted support is vital for cultivating a new generation of artists and creative thinkers.
Education - K through 12 Art Education

Spotlight Fund Grants - STEM Fund

Adopt-A-Classroom Inc
Private
United States
US $500 - US $5,000
The Spotlight Fund Grants, specifically the STEM Fund, provide essential funding for K-12 educators to enhance their curriculum with necessary tools and materials for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math education. Aimed at supporting under-served communities, these grants typically range from $500 to $1,000 per educator, with a cap of $5,000 per school. Priority is given to educators from high-needs schools, ensuring equitable access to quality STEM education.
Education - K through 12 STEM / STEAM Education

Alchemy Fund Grant

Longmont Community Foundation
Private
Boulder County, Colorado, Weld County, Colorado
US $7,500
The Alchemy Fund Grant, administered by the Longmont Community Foundation, offers two $7,500 grants to nonprofits focused on enhancing the lives of children from birth to 3rd grade. Eligible applicants can include organizations that foster creative learning, train educators, or promote physical activities for children. The fund emphasizes supporting innovative programs that can be replicated in other areas, encouraging applicants to highlight their potential broader impact.
Early Childhood Development Education - Preschool / Early Learning

NJCCR: Research Bridge Grant

State of New Jersey Department of Health
State/Local Government
New Jersey
Up to US $200,000
The NJCCR Bridge Cancer Research Grants aim to support innovative cancer research projects in New Jersey with funding up to $200,000 for two years. Targeted at dedicated researchers facing temporary funding gaps, these grants promote advancements in cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. Eligible applicants must hold full-time faculty positions. The NJCCR plays a crucial role in enhancing cancer research and addressing health disparities within the state.
Cancer / Oncology

NJCCR: Postdoctoral Fellowship Grants

State of New Jersey Department of Health
State/Local Government
New Jersey
Up to US $200,000
The NJCCR Postdoctoral Fellowship Grants aim to retain talented scientists dedicated to cancer research in New Jersey. These grants support innovative research projects with funding up to $200,000 for a maximum of two years. Applicants must be accepted for postdoctoral training under a qualified sponsor at a New Jersey research institution. This initiative is part of NJCCR's commitment to advancing cancer research and improving health outcomes in the state.
Cancer / Oncology

NJCCR: Predoctoral Fellowship Grants

State of New Jersey Department of Health
State/Local Government
New Jersey
Up to US $100,000
The NJCCR Predoctoral Fellowship Grants aim to attract and retain promising scientists focused on cancer research in New Jersey. Offering up to $100,000 for two years, these grants support innovative projects in cancer causes, prevention, and treatment. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal residents, and enrolled in a relevant graduate program. This initiative promotes significant research contributions while addressing health disparities and enhancing community health outcomes in New Jersey.
Cancer / Oncology

Tobacco-Related Disease Research Program (TRDRP): Postdoctoral Award

Regents Of The University Of California, Office Of The President
Private
California
Unspecified amount
The Tobacco-Related Disease Research Program (TRDRP) offers a Postdoctoral Award aimed at supporting innovative research focused on reducing tobacco use and diseases. This program encourages a minimum 75% time commitment from postdoctoral trainees, who must submit original research proposals with mentor guidance. Awards provide up to $70,000 annually for three years, including a fixed institutional allowance for various research-related expenses. This initiative enhances the career development of researchers dedicated to tobacco-related public health issues.
Smoking

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.