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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

Source Water Protection- Noncommunity Transient Grant

Minnesota Department of Health
State/Local Government
Minnesota
US $250 - US $10,000
The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) offers Source Water Protection Grants to support noncommunity transient public water systems. These systems, serving an average of at least 25 individuals daily for at least 60 days a year, are eligible for funding aimed at addressing high-risk contamination sources. This initiative is crucial for safeguarding drinking water quality. For further details, please refer to the FAQs available on the MDH website.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Plan Implementation Grant- Source Water Protection

Minnesota Department of Health
State/Local Government
Minnesota
US $1,000 - US $10,000
The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is providing funding to implement Source Water Protection (SWP) plans, including approved wellhead protection and surface water intake protection plans. This initiative, funded by Clean Water Fund appropriations, aims to assist Public Water Suppliers (PWSs) in executing their SWP measures effectively. Grants will also be available for PWSs without existing SWP plans to enhance water safety and sustainability throughout Minnesota.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Clinical Dental Education Innovation Grant Program

Minnesota Department of Health
State/Local Government
Minnesota
US $30,000 - US $150,000
The Clinical Dental Education Innovation Grant, awarded by the Minnesota Department of Health, aims to enhance dental training opportunities for underserved populations. This grant supports accredited institutions and clinical training sites in Minnesota to expand successful programs or develop new initiatives. It ensures that no service is denied due to inability to pay, thereby promoting access to essential dental care. Eligible applicants must be accredited training providers, and funds are strictly for operational costs related to approved programs.
Dental Health Medical Education & Professional Training

Youth Leadership Fund

Humboldt Area Foundation
Private
Curry County, Oregon, Del Norte County, California +2 more
Up to US $1,500
The Youth Leadership Fund, established by Sally and Rick Botzler, aims to foster youth leadership skills in underserved communities by supporting K-12 initiatives focused on environment, sustainability, and community responsibility. Grants of up to $1,500 are available for organizations that demonstrate measurable outcomes impacting youth and the local environment. The fund prioritizes projects reflective of diverse community needs and encourages collaboration with other partners.
Youth Development & Leadership

AGA: Research Scholar Award

American Gastroenterological Association
Association/Society
Canada, Mexico +1 more
US $300,000
The AGA Research Scholar Award offers $100,000 per year for three years to early-career faculty in digestive disease research. Applicants must hold an MD or PhD and be in a full-time faculty position in North America. The award fosters scientific independence by requiring a minimum of 50% research effort. AGA membership is mandatory, and applicants are encouraged to self-assign their proposals to specific research categories. This award aims to support promising junior researchers in their pursuit of independent research careers.
Digestive System Health & Diseases

AGA: Fellow Abstract Award

American Gastroenterological Association
Association/Society
Canada, Mexico +1 more
US $500 - US $1,000
The AGA Fellow Abstract Award, offered by the American Gastroenterological Association, provides a $500 travel award to MD, PhD, or equivalent fellows who present their abstracts at Digestive Disease Week® (DDW). The award encourages the participation of active trainee members and emphasizes diversity by inviting applications from underrepresented groups in biomedical research. The top abstract will earn an additional $1,000 award, highlighting excellence in gastroenterology research.
Digestive System Health & Diseases

AGA Pilot Research Award

American Gastroenterological Association
Association/Society
Canada, Mexico +1 more
US $40,000
The AGA Pilot Research Award offers $40,000 for one year to independent investigators at any career stage, focusing on innovative research in gastroenterology or hepatology. Applicants must hold an MD, PhD, or equivalent degree, and AGA membership is required at the time of application. This award encourages early career researchers and supports projects with new directions, emphasizing mentorship for those in the early stages of their careers.
Digestive System Health & Diseases

AGA Fellowship-to-Faculty Transition Award

American Gastroenterological Association
Association/Society
Canada, Mexico +1 more
US $130,000
The AGA Fellowship-to-Faculty Transition Award offers $65,000 per year for two years, totaling $130,000, to clinical and postdoctoral fellows. This funding is intended to support their transition to independent research careers focused on inflammatory bowel disease in gastroenterology. Applicants must hold an MD or equivalent, be in a fellowship position in North America, and demonstrate a commitment to clinical or translational research. AGA membership is required, and applicants should have a mentor who is also an AGA member.
Digestive System Health & Diseases

AANA: Research Grants

Arthroscopy Association Of North America Inc
Private
United States
US $25,000 - US $50,000
The AANA Research Grants support clinical and basic science research in arthroscopic surgery, with a funding pool for 2024 reaching $350,000. One project may receive $50,000, while six others can be awarded $25,000 each. Applications are evaluated based on scientific validity, feasibility, clinical relevance, and completion ability. Special consideration is given to innovative surgical techniques and patient-reported outcomes. Travel expenses for study participants may also be considered during grant reviews.
Musculoskeletal Diseases

Trauma-Informed Practice Fund Grant

The Fund For Greater Hartford Inc
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut, Middlesex County, Connecticut +1 more
Up to US $5,000
The Trauma-Informed Practice Fund Grant supports organizations working directly with children to adopt trauma-informed practices. Grants of up to $5,000 can be requested for various training-related expenses, including travel and trainer fees. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations and demonstrate commitment to serving diverse youth populations. Priority is given to communities like Hartford, New Britain, and Middletown. Collaborative applications are encouraged to enhance training effectiveness and sustainability.
Child Abuse & Neglect

Traditional Fine Arts Organization Grant

Traditional Fine Arts Organization Inc
Private
United States
US $1,000 - US $5,000
The Traditional Fine Arts Organization Grant aims to support art museums and cultural centers in promoting American representational art through co-sponsorship of exhibitions. The grant encourages institutions to provide detailed information about their exhibitions online and to make catalogs freely available. Grants are available for exhibits opening through mid-2025, fostering education and appreciation of art while avoiding funding for capital improvements or operating expenses.
American Art

Clinician Scientist Development Grant (CSDG)- Winter Cycle

American Cancer Society
Association/Society
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
US $405,000 - US $675,000
The Clinician Scientist Development Grant (CSDG) by the American Cancer Society supports full-time faculty aiming to become independent clinician scientists while maintaining clinical practice. Eligible applicants must hold a doctoral degree, an active clinical license, and have clinical care experience. The grant provides funding of $135,000 annually for 3 to 5 years, including allowable indirect costs, to advance cancer research in key priority areas.
Cancer / Oncology

ASTRO-ACS Clinician Scientist Development Grant (CSDG)

American Cancer Society
Association/Society
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
US $405,000 - US $675,000
The American Cancer Society (ACS) and the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) co-fund the Clinician Scientist Development Grant (CSDG), aimed at advancing the research careers of clinician scientists in radiation oncology. Eligible applicants are full-time faculty members at U.S. institutions with a doctoral degree and an active clinical license. The grant supports research for 3 to 5 years, providing $135,000 annually for direct costs, plus allowable indirect costs, while encouraging diversity in applications.
Cancer / Oncology

Institutional Research Grants (IRG)

American Cancer Society
Association/Society
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $360,000
The Institutional Research Grants (IRG) program by the American Cancer Society provides essential seed funding for newly independent investigators to launch cancer research projects. Aimed at junior faculty, these grants offer $120,000 annually for three years, supporting the development of preliminary results necessary for competing for larger national grants. Eligible applicants must be at US academic institutions and hold the rank of Associate or Full Professor, with a proven track record in research and mentorship.
Cancer / Oncology

PLTW Launch - Program Expansion (Burns and McDonnell)

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
Adams County, Colorado, Alamance County, North Carolina +300 more
US $5,000
The PLTW Launch program, in collaboration with Burns and McDonnell, aims to enhance STEM education by expanding access to innovative educational modules in eligible schools. This initiative supports public and charter schools in targeted counties, focusing on increasing student engagement in STEM fields. Through grant funding, participating schools can introduce new PLTW Launch modules and provide essential training for teachers, fostering a richer learning environment to prepare students for future careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Teacher Development & Training STEM / STEAM Education

PLTW Gateway - New Program (Chevron Louisiana)

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
Lafayette Parish, Louisiana, Lafourche Parish, Louisiana +3 more
US $15,000
The PLTW Gateway grant, funded by Chevron, aims to enhance educational opportunities for K-12 students in Louisiana. This initiative supports the implementation of Project Lead The Way (PLTW) programs in local schools, promoting STEM education. Since 2009, Chevron has invested over $17 million in PLTW, impacting nearly 250,000 students and over 8,100 teachers nationwide. The grant enables schools to offer PLTW Gateway units, fostering innovative learning experiences for the next academic year.
Teacher Development & Training Education - K through 12

PLTW Gateway - Program Expansion (Chevron Louisiana)

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
Lafayette Parish, Louisiana, Lafourche Parish, Louisiana +3 more
US $5,000
The PLTW Gateway grant, supported by Chevron, aims to enhance educational experiences in Louisiana by expanding Project Lead The Way programs. With over $17 million invested since 2009, this initiative has transformed education for nearly 250,000 students. The grant will facilitate the addition of new PLTW units, training for more teachers, and overall program growth, ensuring that students receive quality STEM education and preparation for future careers.
Education - K through 12 Teacher Development & Training

PLTW Gateway - New Program (Chevron Mississippi)

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
George County, Mississippi, Jackson County, Mississippi
US $10,000
Chevron has committed funds to support PLTW Gateway programs in Mississippi, aiming to enhance K-12 educational experiences. Since 2009, over $24 million has been invested nationally, benefiting over 411,000 students and 9,500 teachers. This initiative encourages public and charter schools to implement PLTW units, promoting hands-on learning in STEM fields. Eligible districts include Moss Point, George County, and others, ensuring local schools receive the resources needed for transformative education.
Education - K through 12 Teacher Development & Training

PLTW Gateway - Program Expansion (Chevron Mississippi)

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
George County, Mississippi, Jackson County, Mississippi
US $5,000
Chevron is investing in the expansion of the PLTW Gateway program in Mississippi, which has already benefitted over 411,000 students and 9,500 teachers since 2009. With over $24 million in funding, this initiative aims to enhance STEM education through additional units and training opportunities for educators. Schools in several districts, including Moss Point and Ocean Springs, are eligible for this funding, which supports transformative educational experiences for K-12 students.
Education - K through 12 Teacher Development & Training

Dermatology Foundation: Research Grant

Dermatology Foundation
Private
United States
US $25,000
The Dermatology Foundation offers a Research Grant of $25,000 annually to support innovative projects in dermatology and cutaneous biology. This funding is aimed at junior investigators in the early stages of their academic careers who demonstrate a strong commitment to skin research. Eligible applicants must conduct research within ACGME-approved departments in the U.S. and must not have received funding from other sources for the same project.
Skin Diseases & Dermatology

Minnesota Racial Equity Fund Grant

H.B. Fuller Company Foundation
Private
Hennepin County, Minnesota, Ramsey County, Minnesota
US $5,000 - US $10,000
The Minnesota Racial Equity Fund Grant aims to foster lasting change by supporting organizations in the Twin Cities that address historic systemic racism affecting communities of color. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $10,000, focusing on employment, education, and community safety. Only tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations in Hennepin and Ramsey counties are eligible. This initiative is part of H.B. Fuller Company Foundation's commitment to racial equity and community empowerment.
Racial / Ethnic Justice & Rights

Ride to the Wild Fund Grant

Humboldt Area Foundation
Private
Humboldt County, California
Unspecified amount
The Ride to the Wild Fund Grant, established by Bill and Melissa Zielinski, supports Humboldt County K-12 teachers by covering transportation costs for educational field trips to local natural areas. This initiative aligns with the funding priorities of the Humboldt Area Foundation and Wild Rivers Community Foundation, which focus on equity, economic development, and environmental health. Grants typically cover the average cost of a bus for a single outing, encouraging hands-on nature experiences for students.
Environmental Education Education - K through 12

Disaster Response & Resilience Fund

Humboldt Area Foundation
Private
Curry County, Oregon, Del Norte County, California +2 more
Unspecified amount
The Disaster Response & Resilience Fund, managed by the Humboldt Area Foundation, supports non-profit organizations and community groups in Humboldt, Trinity, Del Norte, and Curry counties during disasters. The fund focuses on immediate needs and safety for the vulnerable, addressing challenges posed by natural and man-made disasters. By prioritizing equitable support, it aims to strengthen community resilience and ensure effective disaster response and recovery.
Disaster Preparedness Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid

Grants for Aquatic Center Education Program

California Department of Parks and Recreation
State/Local Government
Alameda County, California, Butte County, California +21 more
Up to US $6,200
The Grants for Aquatic Center Education Program aims to enhance boating safety education in California by providing funding to non-profit organizations, colleges, and local agencies. The grants support on-the-water training, covering essential topics such as boating laws and environmental stewardship. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a commitment to safe boating practices and have qualified staff. This initiative promotes public access to waterways while ensuring a safer recreational boating environment.
Recreational Water Use & Boating

Cognitive Neuroscience

National Science Foundation (NSF)
Federal Government
United States
Unspecified amount
The Cognitive Neuroscience (CogNeuro) Program by the National Science Foundation aims to fund proposals that deepen our understanding of the neural mechanisms of cognition and behavior. Successful applications will connect physiology, cognition, and behavior while also promoting outreach and mentoring within the field. Research topics include action, perception, memory, and decision-making. The program encourages broader impacts such as STEM outreach and public engagement in research, with a focus on diverse communities.
Neuroscience

Boating Facilities Program

Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office
State/Local Government
Washington
Up to US $1,000,000
The Boating Facilities Program, established in 1964, offers grants for the acquisition, development, and renovation of facilities for motorized boats and watercraft. Eligible projects include boat launches, guest moorage, and support amenities, with funding of up to $1 million for various project types. Local agencies and tribes must provide a 25% match, while state applicants are exempt. A comprehensive recreation or conservation plan is required to apply, ensuring sustainable development of recreational facilities.
Recreational Water Use & Boating

CFES Education Grants

Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore
Private
Somerset County, Maryland, Wicomico County, Maryland +1 more
Up to US $5,000
The CFES Education Grant Program supports teacher-led projects in public and MSDE approved nonpublic schools on Maryland's Lower Eastern Shore. It emphasizes creativity, strong leadership support, and measurable success. Applications are limited to two per school, with a focus on projects that can be replicated and become self-sustaining. Priority is given to innovative educational initiatives rather than capital expenditures or field trips. Awardees are celebrated at a special reception each November.
Education - K through 12 Education - Preschool / Early Learning

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.

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