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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

Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Utah

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Utah
Up to US $1,000,000
The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Utah support eligible communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies affecting safe drinking water availability. The program funds water transmission line grants of up to $150,000 for repairs and maintenance, and water source grants of up to $1,000,000 for constructing water facilities. This initiative aids rural areas and towns, fostering access to clean water following disasters and enhancing environmental quality.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program (ORLP) Recurring Notice 5 Year

US Department of the Interior: National Park Service (NPS)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
US $300,000 - US $15,000,000
The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program (ORLP) is a competitive grant initiative by the National Park Service, aimed at enhancing parks and recreational opportunities in urban, underserved communities. This program supports the acquisition, development, and renovation of outdoor recreation areas through federal funding, addressing the needs of community organizations, local governments, and recognized tribes. Applications are accepted twice a year, before June 1 and November 1.
Parks & Public Spaces Outdoor Recreation Outdoor Equity

Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Texas

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Texas
Up to US $1,000,000
The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Texas support eligible rural communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies that jeopardize safe drinking water. Events qualifying as emergencies include droughts, floods, and disease outbreaks. The grants can fund water transmission lines and new water sources, with funding up to $1,000,000. These efforts aim to restore access to clean water and enhance local environments, ultimately benefiting rural households and businesses.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Ohio Drug Law Enforcement Fund (DLEF) (OH)

Ohio Office of Criminal & Justice Services
State/Local Government
Ohio
Up to US $250,000
The Ohio Drug Law Enforcement Fund (DLEF) supports drug task forces in enforcing state drug laws by providing financial assistance. Managed by the Ohio Office of Criminal Justice Services, this fund allows agencies to prioritize their needs while ensuring a minimum match of 25% for project costs. This flexibility helps combat illegal drug activity effectively, enhancing local law enforcement efforts across Ohio.
Police & Law Enforcement

ILETSB - Law Enforcement Camera Grant

Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board
State/Local Government
Illinois
Up to US $3,000,000
The FY 25 ILETSB Law Enforcement Camera Grant provides funding to Illinois law enforcement agencies for the acquisition of in-car video and officer-worn body cameras. This initiative supports local governmental units such as municipalities and counties in enhancing their law enforcement capabilities. Eligible applicants include public universities and park districts. The grant aims to improve community safety through better surveillance and accountability in law enforcement operations.
Police & Law Enforcement

Non-Profit Security Program

Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security
State/Local Government
Cook County, Illinois
Up to US $200,000
The Non-Profit Security Program offers vital funding to nonprofit organizations at high risk of terrorist attacks, enhancing their physical and cybersecurity measures. In FY 2024, two funding sources are available: NSGP-NSS-UA for nonprofits in designated urban areas like Cook County, and NSGP-NSS-S for those outside these areas. This initiative aims to bolster the security preparedness of nonprofits while aligning with broader state and local efforts.
Domestic / Homeland Security Cybersecurity

Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Tennessee

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Tennessee
Up to US $1,000,000
The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Tennessee provide crucial funding to eligible communities for preparing and recovering from water emergencies. With grants of up to $1,000,000 for water sources and $150,000 for repairs, the program aims to ensure safe drinking water access after disasters like floods or droughts. Open to various applicants, including local governments and nonprofits, this initiative supports rural areas, enhancing both environmental restoration and community resilience.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in South Carolina

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
South Carolina
Up to US $1,000,000
The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in South Carolina provide critical funding to assist eligible communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies that threaten safe drinking water availability. These grants, ranging up to $1 million, support various needs including construction of water sources and repairing distribution lines. This program aims to restore access to clean water in rural areas and promote environmental sustainability, thereby benefiting households and businesses affected by disasters.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Rhode Island

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Rhode Island
Up to US $1,000,000
The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Rhode Island support eligible communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies that compromise safe drinking water availability. Events such as droughts, floods, and chemical spills qualify for assistance. Grants can fund projects like waterline extensions or treatment facilities, with amounts reaching up to $1 million. This initiative aims to restore access to clean water and promote environmental sustainability in rural areas.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Caroline and Martin Gross Fellowship

New Hampshire Charitable Foundation
Private
Middlesex County, Massachusetts
Unspecified amount
The Caroline and Martin Gross Fellowship honors outstanding public service work in New Hampshire. Established in memory of Caroline and Martin Gross, it provides funding for individuals in elected or appointed positions to attend a three-week seminar at Harvard's Kennedy School of Government. Candidates are evaluated based on their public service experience, capacity to benefit from the program, and commitment to improving decision-making processes. Self-nominations are discouraged, ensuring a focus on merit.
Civic Leadership Development Governance & Democracy

Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Puerto Rico

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Puerto Rico
Up to US $1,000,000
The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Puerto Rico aim to assist eligible communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies that threaten safe drinking water. Events qualifying as emergencies include droughts, floods, and chemical spills. The grants can be used for constructing water sources or repairing existing water distribution lines, with funding up to $1 million. This program is vital for ensuring access to clean water in rural areas following disasters.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Pennsylvania

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Pennsylvania
Up to US $1,000,000
The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Pennsylvania, funded by USDA Rural Development, support eligible communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies that threaten safe drinking water. Grants can be used for water transmission line projects up to $150,000 and water source construction up to $1,000,000. This initiative aims to restore access to clean water in rural areas, benefiting households and businesses after disasters, enhancing the environment, and promoting local economic growth.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Preserve Route 66 Legacy Business Grant Fund

National Trust for Historic Preservation
Private
Bernalillo County, New Mexico, Coconino County, Arizona +6 more
US $5,000 - US $10,000
The Preserve Route 66 Legacy Business Grant Fund offers financial support to enhance historic sites and stimulate economic growth along the iconic Route 66. Targeting projects that reflect the diverse narratives of historically underrepresented communities, this grant emphasizes mural and painting initiatives in preparation for the 2026 centennial celebration. Grants range from $5,000 to $10,000, with no matching funds required, fostering inclusivity and preservation of cultural heritage along the corridor.
Economic Services & Development Historic Preservation

Supporting Talented Early Career Researchers in Genomics (R01 Clinical Trial Optional) (357744)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $2,000,000
This funding opportunity supports exceptionally promising Early Stage Investigators in genomics, encouraging innovative research across various fields such as genomic sciences and medicine. Applicants must submit their proposals by 5:00 PM local time of their organization. The initiative, led by the US Dept. of Health & Human Services through the NIH, aims to foster long-term career development in genomic research while addressing its ethical, legal, and social implications.
Genetics & Genomics Medical Ethics

Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Oregon

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Oregon
Up to US $1,000,000
The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Oregon support eligible rural communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies that threaten safe drinking water availability. Funded by USDA Rural Development, these grants can address issues like droughts, floods, or chemical spills. They offer up to $150,000 for water transmission line projects and up to $1,000,000 for water source construction, ensuring access to clean water in affected areas.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

USF: Community Impact Grant

Usa Swimming Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $5,000
The USF Community Impact Grant, established by USA Swimming and the USA Swimming Foundation, aims to enhance competitive opportunities in swimming clubs. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for registered USA Swimming clubs committed to fostering community engagement and collaboration. Eligible clubs can renew their grant for up to three years, promoting diverse access to swimming programs. This initiative particularly supports clubs that partner with educational or public entities and those led by women or minorities.
Swimming

Youth Arts Grant

City of Seattle: Office of Arts & Culture
State/Local Government
King County, Washington
US $12,000
The Youth Arts Grant, provided by the City of Seattle: Office of Arts & Culture, aims to enhance arts access for middle and high school youth. This two-year program supports diverse artists and organizations that facilitate after-school arts education. With a total funding of $12,000, priority is given to projects serving underrepresented communities. Eligible applicants include individual artists and cultural organizations committed to fostering creative opportunities for youth facing social inequities.
Youth Involvement in the Arts

USF: Adult Learn-to-Swim Grants

Usa Swimming Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,000 - US $5,000
The Adult Learn-to-Swim Grants, offered by the USA Swimming Foundation in collaboration with U.S. Masters Swimming, aim to enhance swimming safety for adults aged 18 and over. This initiative provides funding to programs that promote swim education, targeting underserved communities. Grants can be used for expenses like pool rentals and scholarships, with a maximum award of $5,000. The goal is to reduce drowning risks and encourage ongoing participation in swimming activities.
Swimming

Millstone Fund

Millstone Fund
Private
Boone County, Kentucky, Bracken County, Kentucky +14 more
US $10,000 - US $50,000
The Millstone Fund aims to foster a vibrant, equitable community in Greater Cincinnati by supporting nonprofit organizations focused on health, education, and arts. The fund prioritizes initiatives that promote innovation, capacity building, and collaborative efforts among organizations. Grants typically range from $20,000 to $50,000, with a commitment to inclusion and equity. Requests exceeding $50,000 require prior approval. The fund seeks to invest in organizations that demonstrate a clear plan for sustainability and impactful services.
Art & Culture Education Health Care Access & Delivery

CHRF: Seed Grants

Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation
Private
Canada
Up to US $10,000
The CHRF: Seed Grants program supports organizations in British Columbia focused on caribou habitat restoration. With funding of up to $10,000, applicants can develop comprehensive proposals to address anthropogenic disturbances affecting high-value caribou habitats. This initiative aims to enhance ecological restoration efforts, ensuring the long-term sustainability of priority herds identified by the Province of BC. The CHRF emphasizes functional restoration methods to improve caribou habitats effectively.
Land / Habitat Conservation

WHAS Crusade for Children Grant - New Applicants

Whas Crusade For Children Inc
Private
Clark County, Indiana, Crawford County, Indiana +25 more
Unspecified amount
The WHAS Crusade for Children Grant supports organizations, schools, and hospitals that assist children with special needs up to age 18 in Kentucky and southern Indiana. Grants are aimed at direct services, specific programs, and equipment that benefit these children. Applicants must be in good IRS standing, and grants cannot fund administrative costs or be awarded to individuals. Since 1954, the Crusade has distributed over $217 million to further this mission.
Children With Disabilities

WHAS Crusade for Children Grant - Former Grant Recipients

Whas Crusade For Children Inc
Private
Clark County, Indiana, Crawford County, Indiana +25 more
Unspecified amount
The WHAS Crusade for Children Grant supports non-profit agencies, schools, and hospitals in Kentucky and southern Indiana that assist children with special needs. Since 1954, over $217 million has been awarded to improve the lives of these children. The grants focus on direct services and specific programs or equipment, excluding administrative costs and personal items. Eligible organizations must have IRS standing and county financial support before applying.
Children With Disabilities

Research With Activities Related to Diversity (ReWARD) (R01 Clinical Trial Optional) (357011)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Unspecified amount
The NIH Research With Activities Related to Diversity (ReWARD) Program aims to enhance research diversity across the U.S. by supporting scientists committed to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA). This grant provides funding for both scientific research and DEIA initiatives, focusing on projects that align with the interests of participating NIH Institutes and Centers, thereby fostering a more inclusive biomedical research community.
Biology Health & Medicine Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Arts Idaho Entry Track Grant

Idaho Commission on the Arts
State/Local Government
Idaho
Unspecified amount
The Arts Idaho Entry Track Grant, offered by the Idaho Commission on the Arts, supports public arts programs by nonprofit organizations and local governments in Idaho. This grant aims to enhance artistic excellence, broaden community access, and promote diversity in the arts. Eligible entities must have a minimum three-year program history and demonstrate a commitment to compensating professional artists. Projects that enhance community engagement and reflect Idaho’s diverse culture are prioritized. Grant recipients may later apply for additional funding.
Arts / Culture Access & Participation Public / Community Art

City of Bellingham- Standard Tourism Grant

City of Bellingham
State/Local Government
Whatcom County, Washington
US $5,000 - US $30,000
The City of Bellingham offers the Standard Tourism Grant to promote cultural activities and tourism. This program supports events that attract visitors, enhancing local economic activity. Funded by a lodging tax, grants typically range from $5,000 to $30,000, targeting well-established events. Open to both for-profit and non-profit organizations, it requires adherence to city business regulations. The grant helps fund marketing and operations for events that enrich Bellingham's cultural landscape.
Tourism

Bellingham Tourism Grant Program- The Start-Up Grant

City of Bellingham
State/Local Government
Whatcom County, Washington
Up to US $5,000
The Bellingham Tourism Grant Program, specifically the Start-Up Grant, is designed to promote new tourism and cultural activities in Bellingham. It provides funding of up to $5,000 to for-profit and non-profit organizations for initiatives that draw visitors to the city. The program aims to enhance economic activity by supporting events that engage tourists, ensuring that all activities funded are open to the public.
Tourism

Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities (Section 5310)

Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana Regional Council of Governments
Private
Boone County, Kentucky, Butler County, Ohio +6 more
Unspecified amount
The Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities (Section 5310) program aims to improve transportation options for seniors and individuals with disabilities by removing barriers to access. It provides federal funds for necessary services, including vehicle purchases for paratransit. Eligible applicants include private nonprofits and local authorities approved to coordinate such services. This initiative enhances mobility for essential activities like employment, medical appointments, and grocery shopping, ultimately supporting community integration and independence.
Disability Care & Services Senior Services

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.

Last updated: October 5, 2026. Next update: November 1, 2026.

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.