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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

South32 Hermosa Community Fund Grant

Community Foundation for Southern Arizona
Private
Santa Cruz County, Arizona
Up to US $10,000
The South32 Hermosa Community Fund Grant supports nonprofit organizations in Santa Cruz County, Arizona, focusing on education, economic participation, health, and natural resource resilience. Grants of up to $80,000 are available each cycle, with requests up to $10,000 considered. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations in good standing and demonstrate local leadership. The fund prioritizes collaborative projects that enhance community skills and capacities, ensuring equal opportunities for all, while maintaining a commitment to diversity.
Economic Services & Development Education Wellness & Healthy Living +5 more

Kirkpatrick Family Fund: Large Grants (more than $15,000)

Kirkpatrick Family Fund
Private
Oklahoma
More than US $15,000
The Kirkpatrick Family Fund offers large grants over $15,000 to nonprofit organizations in central Oklahoma and the Pikes Peak region. It focuses on projects that enhance arts, education, health, and community well-being. Applicants must demonstrate measurable outcomes and align with the foundation's mission. Prioritization is given to organizations with a broad community impact and innovative programming. Note that requests for ongoing support or capital projects are not eligible. A Letter of Intent is required one month prior to the application deadline.
Art & Culture Education Economic Services & Development +13 more

Olive Tree Foundation Grant Program

The Olive Tree Foundation
Private
Canada
US $5,000
The Olive Tree Foundation Grant Program supports Canadian charities by awarding grants that address various community needs. In 2024, funding priorities include anti-racism, Indigenous initiatives, interfaith projects, climate action, and youth services. Eligible applicants must be registered charities or have a registered charity sponsor. Funding amounts vary based on available resources and community impact potential, encouraging innovative solutions to pressing social issues.
Human & Social Services Health & Medicine Community Services +10 more

GreenState Foundation Grant

Greenstate Foundation
Private
Johnson County, Iowa
Unspecified amount
The GreenState Foundation Grant aims to empower communities through initiatives focused on Financial Education, Housing, and Children's Health. By supporting local 501(c)3 nonprofits, the foundation seeks to enhance financial literacy, provide affordable housing solutions, and promote the health of youth. With a commitment to improving quality of life, the foundation invites grant applications that align with its mission, emphasizing community-driven projects that foster sustainable growth and well-being for all.
Financial Literacy Equitable & Affordable Housing Environment +5 more

Grants for Greater Manhattan

Greater Manhattan Community Foundation
Private
Riley County, Kansas
Up to US $10,000
The Grants for Greater Manhattan program supports initiatives in arts, humanities, education, health care, and community development, primarily benefiting residents of Manhattan and Riley County, Kansas. It prioritizes funding for activities requiring ongoing support but excludes school gardening projects and requests from for-profit organizations, unless for scholarships or free services for low-income individuals. This grant aims to enhance the quality of life and community engagement across various sectors.
Art & Culture Education Youth Services +11 more

CMCF: Scholarships

Central Montcalm Community Foundation
Private
Montcalm County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Central Montcalm Community Foundation offers various scholarships aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for local students. Scholarships like the Dr. Victor Beal Jr. Scholarship and the Ronald R. Burkholder Athletic and Educational Scholarship focus on academic achievement and community involvement. With funding sourced from endowed funds, these scholarships support students pursuing further education at colleges and universities, ensuring a lasting impact on the community's youth and fostering a culture of academic excellence and service.
Academic Scholarship Programs Sports & Athletics Volunteerism & Philanthropy +8 more

Parsons Foundation Grant

Bob And Renee Parsons Foundation
Private
Maricopa County, Arizona
Unspecified amount
The Bob and Renee Parsons Foundation is dedicated to supporting low-income and underserved communities through transformational gifts to nonprofit organizations. Focused on areas such as youth and education, health and home, military and first responders, the foundation aims to make a measurable impact. By prioritizing organizations that align with their mission, they strive to empower individuals and break the cycles of poverty and discrimination, ensuring every community member has a chance to thrive.
Homelessness Services Health Care Access & Delivery Youth Services +6 more

Dallas Stars Foundation Community Grants

Dallas Stars Foundation
Private
Texas
Unspecified amount
The Dallas Stars Foundation Community Grant Program aims to provide financial support to local non-profits, enhancing awareness of their charitable missions through the 50/50 Raffle at Dallas Stars games. Selected organizations will benefit from proceeds during a benefit game in the 2025-2026 season, with an average donation of $10,000. Non-profits focusing on youth hockey, community engagement, and children's health are encouraged to apply, while those funded in the previous season are ineligible.
Hockey Children’s Mental Health Children With Disabilities +6 more

Arts & Culture – Small Arts Grants- For Fiscally Sponsored Organizations

Fleishhacker Foundation
Private
Alameda County, California, Contra Costa County, California +1 more
US $5,000 - US $10,000
The Fleishhacker Foundation offers Small Arts Grants to support small and mid-sized arts organizations in the Bay Area. These grants are designed for fiscally sponsored organizations, allowing them to access funding without traditional nonprofit status. Eligible applicants must meet specific budgetary requirements and demonstrate alignment with the foundation's mission. The program emphasizes support for historically marginalized artists and communities, ensuring that diverse artistic voices are represented in the cultural landscape.
Art & Culture Music Performing Arts +6 more

CDBG Program

City of Suffolk Virginia
State/Local Government
Suffolk City, Virginia
Unspecified amount
The City of Suffolk's CDBG Program provides annual funding opportunities for non-profit organizations and city boards that serve local residents. Aimed at revitalizing neighborhoods and enhancing economic opportunities, the program prioritizes projects benefiting low- and moderate-income individuals. Eligible applicants must adhere to specific criteria, ensuring that funding supports community-focused initiatives. With a focus on collaboration, the program fosters partnerships to maximize impact and improve community facilities and services.
Equitable & Affordable Housing Supportive Housing & Shelters Economic Services & Development +4 more

NAILBA Charitable Foundation Grant

Nailba Charitable Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The NAILBA Charitable Foundation Grant aims to support small, well-managed U.S. charities that assist those in need, particularly children. Grants are available to organizations with backing from a NAILBA member and that meet specific criteria, such as nonsectarian operation and appropriate fiscal accountability. Since its inception in 2002, the foundation has invested in community transformation by funding initiatives that directly engage in beneficial services, thereby enhancing the welfare of underprivileged groups.
Basic Human Needs Youth Services Poverty Alleviation & Services +7 more

Lindsborg David Nutt Regular Grant

McPherson County Community Foundation
Private
McPherson County, Kansas
Up to US $10,000
The Lindsborg David Nutt Regular Grant, offered by the McPherson County Community Foundation, supports nonprofit organizations in the McPherson area. With a maximum grant of $10,000, the foundation funds various programs focused on arts, basic human needs, education, and health care. Applications are accepted six times a year, providing opportunities for local organizations to secure funding for impactful projects that benefit the community.
Art & Culture Basic Human Needs Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid +10 more

Dane G Hansen Community Grant for Wallace County

Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation
Private
Wallace County, Kansas
Unspecified amount
The Dane G. Hansen Community Grant for Wallace County, initiated in March 2015, aims to support charitable activities across Northwest Kansas. It prioritizes educational enhancements, healthcare access, economic development, and community services. Grants are available to 501(c)(3) nonprofits and governmental institutions, while individual applications are not eligible. Preference is given to projects that engage community involvement and utilize strategic planning processes. This initiative fosters sustainable growth and improves quality of life for local residents.
Recreation Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid Human & Social Services +8 more

CFGF General Grant Fund

Community Foundation of Greater Flint
Private
Genesee County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Community Foundation of Greater Flint's CFGF: Community Impact Fund aims to support nonprofit organizations that provide vital resources to marginalized groups, fostering community connections and inclusivity. Established in 1988, this fund emphasizes collaborative efforts and strategic priorities aligned with community needs in Genesee County. Grants are available for various initiatives, including health, youth support, and historic preservation. Organizations must demonstrate a commitment to non-discrimination and relevance to local residents to qualify for funding.
Education Health & Medicine Human & Social Services +6 more

Charitable work in the County of Sussex Grants (UK only) - Small Grant

Ernest Kleinwort Charitable Trust
Private
United Kingdom
Up to £10,000
The Ernest Kleinwort Charitable Trust offers small grants for charitable work in Sussex, focusing on areas such as wildlife conservation, youth enterprise, and care for the elderly. Applications are accepted year-round from registered charities that align with the Trust's mission. Funding is available for start-up costs, core costs, and specific projects, emphasizing support for local initiatives. The Trust aims to enhance community welfare while promoting environmental conservation in its home county.
Disability Care & Services Senior Services Hospice / End of Life Care +6 more

Liberty Mutual Foundation- Discretionary Grants for Washington State

Liberty Mutual Foundation
Corporate
King County, Washington
Unspecified amount
The Liberty Mutual Foundation, through the Safeco Insurance Fund, offers discretionary grants to support nonprofits in Washington State. Established in 2006, the fund focuses on empowering vulnerable communities by funding initiatives in education, youth workforce development, housing stability, and climate resiliency. Grants are available for both single and multi-year programs, with a continuous review process. Organizations must be located in Washington and adhere to eligibility criteria, including not having applied within the last 12 months.
Education Human & Social Services Community / Public Safety +6 more

MCCF General Grant

McPherson County Community Foundation
Private
McPherson County, Kansas
Unspecified amount
The MCCF General Grant supports nonprofit organizations in McPherson County, focusing on various sectors including arts, education, health care, and community development. Applications are accepted continuously, with specific deadlines throughout the year. However, the foundation does not grant funds to individuals or for purposes such as lobbying or support for discriminatory organizations. This grant aims to enhance community programs that benefit residents.
Art & Culture Basic Human Needs Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid +10 more

Stringfellow Health Fund Grant

Community Foundation of Northeast Alabama
Private
Calhoun County, Alabama, Cherokee County, Alabama +7 more
Up to US $50,000
The Stringfellow Health Fund Grant provides essential healthcare funding to 501(c)(3) public charities in nine Alabama counties. Focus areas include addressing preventable health issues, advocacy, and serving individuals with chronic conditions. Eligible organizations must demonstrate a minimum one-year operating history and adhere to specific strategic planning requirements. Grants aim to enhance community health and well-being, fostering a healthier future for residents in the designated service area.
Disability Care & Services Health & Medicine Community Health Education +7 more

Boyd Evison Graduate Research Fellowship

Grand Teton Association
Private
Fremont County, Idaho, Gallatin County, Montana +3 more
US $15,000
The Boyd Evison Graduate Research Fellowship, sponsored by Grand Teton Association, promotes scientific and conservation research in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Honoring Boyd Evison's legacy, this fellowship supports graduate students pursuing biosciences, geosciences, or social sciences with $15,000. It encourages projects that enhance understanding of natural resources and sustainable management, particularly those addressing lesser-known ecosystem elements. The fellowship seeks innovative proposals that make significant contributions to the scientific community and resource management.
Natural Resources Plant Science Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration +5 more

CFCM: Impact Grant

Community Foundation of Central Missouri
Private
Adair County, Missouri, Audrain County, Missouri +7 more
US $5,000
The Community Foundation of Central Missouri (CFCM) offers the Impact Grant, a $5,000 funding opportunity designed to significantly address critical issues in mid-Missouri. This grant focuses on human capacity development for disadvantaged individuals or arts initiatives. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations based in central Missouri and operational for at least five years. Projects may target equal opportunity, education, and senior services, among others, adapting to community needs over time.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Poverty Alleviation & Services Equitable & Affordable Housing +4 more

McInnes Charitable Trust Grant

Sally Brown McInnes and John "Mac" McInnes Charitable Trust
Private
United States
US $20,000 - US $35,000
The McInnes Charitable Trust, founded by Sally and John McInnes, aims to support organizations in Colorado focused on animal welfare, children's health, education, and empowerment. The Trust prioritizes funding for exempt organizations under Section 501(c)(3) with a proven track record. It typically does not fund capital improvements or multi-year commitments. By fostering a spirit of generosity, the Trust honors the McInnes family's legacy and commitment to various charitable causes.
Education - Preschool / Early Learning Children With Disabilities Youth Services +6 more

CDBG Urgent Need Fund Grants

Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development
State/Local Government
Virginia
Up to US $2,500,000

About

The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) is committed to creating safe, affordable and prosperous communities to live, work and do business in Virginia. Find out more about DHCD, including locations, mission and about our director.

CDBG Urgent Need Fund

CDBG Urgent Need Fund Grants enable the prompt response to existing serious and immediate threats to local health and safety. The applicant locality must be unable to finance the project on its own, no other funding is available to address the problem and the CDBG funding will be directly targeted towards alleviation of the threatening conditions. CDBG assistance will generally only be made available to projects, which consist only of activities in support of long-term recovery and primarily benefit low- and moderate-income persons. 

Epidemiology & Public Health Community / Public Safety Food Access & Hunger +6 more

MCCF: Moundridge Grant

McPherson County Community Foundation
Private
McPherson County, Kansas
Unspecified amount
The MCCF: Moundridge Grant supports nonprofit organizations in McPherson, KS, focusing on various sectors such as Arts, Community Development, and Health. Grants can fund project support, operating expenses, and capacity building, with a maximum of $10,000 typically awarded. Eligible applicants must demonstrate benefits to Moundridge residents, while individuals and certain types of requests, like lobbying or travel support, are ineligible.
Art & Culture Basic Human Needs Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid +10 more

Franklin County Foundation Grant

The Foundation for Enhancing Communities
Private
Franklin County, Pennsylvania
Up to US $7,000
The Franklin County Community Foundation Grant supports innovative nonprofit projects in Franklin County, focusing on arts, education, community development, environment, and health services. It seeks applications that demonstrate sustainability and impactful outcomes for local individuals and families. Eligible applicants include registered nonprofits or those with a fiscal sponsor. The foundation prioritizes projects that address community needs, particularly in music, health, and early childhood education, while not funding advertising or new staff positions without sustainability plans.
Art & Culture Education Environment +10 more

Wimbledon Foundation Community Fund Grant

London Community Foundation
Private
United Kingdom
Up to £10,000
The Wimbledon Foundation Community Fund, managed by the London Community Foundation, aims to support local organizations in Merton and Wandsworth. This fund focuses on addressing social needs and improving the lives of disadvantaged individuals through projects enhancing mental health, access to education, advocacy support, and community participation. Organizations seeking funding should align their initiatives with these goals to effectively contribute to local community development.
Education Civic Engagement & Education Health & Medicine +7 more

Virginia Appalachian Regional Commission Funding (VA)

Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development
State/Local Government
Alleghany County, Virginia, Bath County, Virginia +31 more
US $100,000 - US $1,000,000
The Virginia Appalachian Regional Commission Funding aims to foster economic development across Virginia's Appalachian region, which includes 25 counties and eight independent cities. With approximately $8 million available, this funding supports projects that enhance water and sewer services, workforce training, and cultural tourism. Eligible applicants must demonstrate project feasibility, capacity for implementation, and sustainability. This initiative aligns with Virginia's Four-Year Development Plan, focusing on building a robust, asset-based economy while preserving community character.
Renewable/Sustainable Energy Entrepreneurship Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness +5 more

Cherished Communities: Upper Valley and Martha’s Vineyard Grant Program

Couch Family Foundation
Private
Dukes County, Massachusetts, Grafton County, New Hampshire +4 more
Unspecified amount
The Couch Family Foundation supports nonprofits in the Upper Valley and Martha's Vineyard, focusing on enhancing child and family well-being through equitable opportunities. The foundation prioritizes organizations that demonstrate strong leadership, community impact, and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Grants are available for various needs, including general operating, project funding, and capital support, with an emphasis on collaborative community change.
Education - Preschool / Early Learning Children’s Health & Pediatrics Youth Services +7 more

Grants for 501(c)(3) Highlights

Grants for 501(c)(3) organizations provide essential funding to support nonprofit missions across various sectors. These grants empower tax-exempt entities to deliver impactful programs, grow operations, and address community needs.


Search Instrumentl's 501(c)(3) Grants Database


Discover 8,000+ active grants for 501(c)(3) organizations, with $3.43B available. Instrumentl streamlines the grant search process for nonprofits, offering tools for deadline tracking, customized searches, and access to funder insights.

Grant Insights : Grants for 501(c)(3)

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Quite common — grants in this category are more prevalent than in others.

8,000+ Grants for 501(c)(3) grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

3,000+ Grants for 501(c)(3) over $25K in average grant size

3,000+ Grants for 501(c)(3) over $50K in average grant size

1,000+ Grants for 501(c)(3) supporting general operating expenses

7,000+ Grants for 501(c)(3) supporting programs / projects

1,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Environment

600+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Food Access & Hunger

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for grants for 501(c)(3)?

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
29.8%
Q2
23.8%
Q3
23.9%
Q4
22.6%

Typical Funding Amounts

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

Grants are most commonly $34,887.

$0 $0 Min.
$34,887 $34.9 K Median
$655,609 $655.6 K Average
$188,250,000 $188.3 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

In general, any organization that has a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status will qualify for these grants.

Grants for 501(c)(3) organizations play a vital role in supporting nonprofit missions across diverse sectors. By providing essential funding, these grants enable tax-exempt organizations to implement meaningful programs, expand their operations, and effectively address pressing community needs.

In general, grants for 501(c)(3) organizations have the highest concentration of deadlines in Q1, with 29.8% of grant deadlines falling in this period. If you're planning to apply, consider prioritizing your applications around this time to maximize opportunities. Conversely, the least active period for grants in this category is Q4.

These grants are designed to help tax-exempt nonprofit organizations positively impact their communities. The funding can cover things like ongoing operations costs, program development needs, and capacity-building efforts.

Funding for all 501(c)(3) charitable organizations varies widely, with award amounts ranging from a minimum of $0 to a maximum of $188,250,000. Based on Instrumentl’s data, the median grant amount for this category is $34,887, while the average grant awarded is $655,609. Understanding these funding trends can help nonprofits set realistic expectations when applying.

501(c)(3) grants are awarded by all types of funders, including private foundations, corporations, government agencies, and donor-advised funds. The Ford Foundation and the Gates Foundation are two examples.

Federal, state, and local governments offer grants to support nonprofit operations and specific projects. Other private foundations like the Bank of America Charitable Foundation, the Walmart Foundation, the Coca-Cola Foundation, and numerous others provide a wide range of funding opportunities tailored to different charitable causes and sectors.

To increase their chances of securing grants, nonprofits should consider the following strategies:

  • Match Funder Goals – Ensure their proposals align with the funder's mission and priorities.
  • Show Measurable Results – Use data to demonstrate past achievements and future potential.
  • Form Key Partnerships – Collaborate with relevant organizations, such as healthcare providers and community groups, to enhance credibility.
  • Tell a Compelling Story – Use real-life examples and case studies to illustrate the impact of your program.

Learn more about how to conduct effective grant research.

Instrumentl helps nonprofits apply for 501(c)(3) grants more easily. It matches them with the right funding opportunities, analyzes what funders are looking for, and keeps track of deadlines in one place.

See how the Los Angeles LGBT Center cut down weekly admin time from 2-4 hours to less than 30 minutes.