Upcoming Webinar
Instrumentl Fall Launch: Grant Work, Leveled Up.
Thu, Oct 29 or Wed, Nov 4 @ 2PM ET

Skip to main content
Main content

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

Skip the search. Get matched with grants that fit your non-profit.

Skip the search.

Get matched with grants that actually fit.

Smart recommendations based on your profile — in minutes.

Find me grants

Filters

32,600 Results based on applied filters

Robert E. Newsted Memorial Scholarship Fund

Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation
Private
Washtenaw County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Robert E. Newsted Memorial Scholarship Fund, managed by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Detroit Public Schools. This initiative is part of AAACF's broader mission to enrich the quality of life in Washtenaw County, through generous donations that have funded over $650,000 in scholarships in 2025 alone. This fund aims to assist students in their pursuit of higher education across the nation.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Lynda Andrus Memorial Scholarship Fund

Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation
Private
Washtenaw County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Lynda Andrus Memorial Scholarship Fund, managed by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, supports nursing students at Eastern Michigan University. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance the quality of life in Washtenaw County by providing financial assistance to students pursuing higher education. In 2025 alone, over $650,000 was awarded across 26 scholarship funds, reflecting the commitment of local donors to empower the youth of the community.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

CREW in the Community Education Scholarship

Communities Foundation of Texas
Private
Collin County, Texas, Dallas County, Texas +5 more
Up to US $5,000
The CREW in the Community Education Scholarship, offered by the Communities Foundation of Texas, empowers female students pursuing degrees in Qualified Fields of Commercial Real Estate. Since 1953, this initiative has fostered educational and professional advancement for women in the Dallas area, providing scholarships up to $5,000 annually. Eligible applicants include high school graduates and current students from designated North Texas counties, promoting economic independence and community growth.
Academic Scholarship Programs Vocational & Trade Education

CFGDM: Capacity Building Grants

Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines
Private
Dallas County, Iowa, Guthrie County, Iowa +4 more
Up to US $7,500
The Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines offers Capacity Building Grants to enhance the effectiveness of nonprofit organizations. These grants support initiatives like strategic planning, governance improvements, and financial stability efforts, ensuring nonprofits can thrive and fulfill their missions. Applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations and projects should benefit the Greater Des Moines community. This program aims to build resilient organizations that contribute positively to the local community.
All fields of work Business Development

Loyola Foundation Grant

Loyola Foundation Inc.
Private
Afghanistan, Albania +135 more
Up to US $20,000
The Loyola Foundation Grant supports overseas Catholic mission projects focused on capital needs such as construction, equipment, and vehicles. Eligible projects include solar power installations, water wells, and the construction of churches and health clinics. Applications are accepted annually in February and July, with strict deadlines for submission. The foundation emphasizes early application submission due to high demand, and individual grant recipients must wait three years before reapplying.
Catholicism

Welcome Home Scholarship

Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation
Private
Washtenaw County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Welcome Home Scholarship, offered by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, supports honorably discharged veterans returning from active duty in Operation Enduring Freedom or Operation Iraqi Freedom. This scholarship is part of a broader initiative that awarded over $650,000 in 2025 to help local youth pursue post-secondary education. It aims to ease the transition back to civilian life for veterans, ensuring they have the necessary resources to succeed in their educational endeavors.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Walter & Florence E. Aupperle Scholarship

Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation
Private
Washtenaw County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Walter & Florence E. Aupperle Scholarship, offered by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, supports undergraduate students pursuing a major or minor in German Studies at Eastern Michigan University or the University of Michigan. Applicants must be enrolled full-time, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship is part of a broader initiative that awarded over $650,000 to local students in 2025.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Richard D. & Grace P. Leslise Memorial Scholarship

Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation
Private
Washtenaw County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Richard D. & Grace P. Leslise Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, supports students pursuing Retail, Business, or Marketing at Washtenaw Community College. This scholarship prioritizes residents of Washtenaw County who demonstrate financial need and a desire to advance their education. With over $650,000 awarded in 2025 across multiple scholarship funds, this initiative aims to enrich the educational opportunities for local youth and foster community growth.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Rachael Townsend Memorial Scholarship

Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation
Private
Washtenaw County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Rachael Townsend Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, supports female students majoring in Kinesiology at the University of Michigan. Applicants must be enrolled full-time and demonstrate a commitment to physical education and leadership within the community. This scholarship aims to empower young women to excel in their academic pursuits while fostering diversity and social responsibility, ultimately contributing to the enrichment of Washtenaw County's youth.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Pipe Dream Scholarship

Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation
Private
Washtenaw County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Pipe Dream Scholarship, offered by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, supports undergraduate or graduate students at the University of Michigan or Eastern Michigan University. Eligible applicants must be Polish nationals living in the U.S. on a valid visa or have Polish parents, with a minimum GPA of 3.0. In 2025, over $650,000 was awarded across 26 scholarship funds to enhance educational opportunities for Washtenaw County youth.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Nathan Lyndell Hall Memorial Scholarship - CHS

Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation
Private
Washtenaw County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Nathan Lyndell Hall Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Community High School. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.2 and demonstrate two years of community service. This scholarship aims to assist students in pursuing their education at two-year or four-year colleges or universities, contributing to the future of Washtenaw County youth.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Morse B. Barker Memorial Scholarship - WCC

Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation
Private
Washtenaw County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Morse B. Barker Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, supports students attending Washtenaw Community College. Eligible candidates must demonstrate financial need, reside in Washtenaw County, hold a high school diploma, and be aged 18 to 30. Recipients must enroll in at least nine credit hours and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Previous recipients may reapply for the award up to two additional times, contributing to their educational advancement.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Linda Grasselli Sprankle Scholarship

Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation
Private
Washtenaw County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Linda Grasselli Sprankle Scholarship, managed by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, supports African American, Latino/Hispanic, and first-generation college students from Washtenaw County. Eligible applicants must be high school graduates with a minimum GPA of 3.2 and demonstrate financial need. In 2025, the foundation awarded over $650,000 across 26 scholarship funds, empowering local youth to pursue their post-secondary education and achieve their academic goals.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Josephine C. Otto Memorial Scholarship

Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation
Private
Washtenaw County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Josephine C. Otto Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, supports students aged 17-30 who are members of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Dexter, MI. Applicants must be enrolled full-time (minimum 12 credit hours) and demonstrate financial need. In 2025, the foundation awarded over $650,000 across 26 scholarship funds, showcasing its commitment to enhancing the educational opportunities for youth in Washtenaw County.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

James K. Stringwell Scholarship

Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation
Private
Washtenaw County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The James K. Stringwell Scholarship, offered by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, provides financial support to graduating seniors from public high schools in Washtenaw County who plan to attend a Michigan public university or college. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5, demonstrate financial need, and show involvement in athletics or artistic activities. This scholarship aims to empower students with emotional intelligence and an entrepreneurial spirit, contributing to their educational pursuits.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Gamma Rho Boule Education Scholarship

Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation
Private
Washtenaw County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Gamma Rho Boule Education Scholarship, offered by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, supports African American male students graduating from high schools in Washtenaw County. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and plan to attend college or university. With over $650,000 awarded across various scholarship funds, this initiative reflects a commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for local youth.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

AWC Scholarship Fund for Women in Computing

Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation
Private
Washtenaw County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The AWC Scholarship Fund for Women in Computing, managed by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, supports female students pursuing careers in technology. This initiative reflects a commitment to empowering women in the tech field, offering financial aid to those attending colleges or universities in Washtenaw County. With over $650,000 awarded in 2025 across various scholarships, this fund specifically aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster diversity within the computing industry.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Ann Arbor Ad Club Scholarship

Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation
Private
Washtenaw County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Ann Arbor Ad Club Scholarship, offered by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, supports students from Washtenaw County pursuing degrees in advertising, communications, public relations, marketing, or journalism. Eligible applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and be enrolled in an accredited two- or four-year institution. With over $650,000 awarded across 26 scholarship funds, this initiative aims to empower local youth to achieve their educational goals.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Dallas Geological Society Scholarship

Communities Foundation of Texas
Private
United States
More than US $1,000
The Dallas Geological Society Scholarship, managed by the Communities Foundation of Texas, provides one-year awards of up to $5,000 to undergraduate and graduate students majoring in Geological Sciences. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or documented residents, residing in the Dallas area, with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Preference is given to those who have completed core geology courses. This scholarship supports the development of future leaders in the geosciences.
Geology Academic Scholarship Programs

Dale and Marilyn Hasler Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation Alliance, Inc.
Private
Spencer County, Indiana
US $1,170
The Dale and Marilyn Hasler Memorial Scholarship, established by family and friends, supports graduating seniors from Heritage Hills and Southridge High Schools. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale and seek a four-year engineering degree. The scholarship emphasizes financial need and community involvement, promoting educational advancement for local students. This initiative is part of the Community Foundation Alliance's broader mission to foster philanthropy and improve community wellbeing in southwestern Indiana.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Cornelius R. Collignon Family Scholarship

Community Foundation Alliance, Inc.
Private
Spencer County, Indiana
US $2,170
The Cornelius R. Collignon Family Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation Alliance, supports graduating seniors or graduates from Spencer County high schools pursuing a four-year degree in agriculture, forestry, or aviation. Established in memory of Cornelius R. Collignon, this scholarship honors his dedication to protecting natural resources. Eligible applicants must demonstrate leadership, patriotism, and financial need, with preference given to students entering their sophomore, junior, or senior year in college.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Brauns Family Scholarship

Community Foundation Alliance, Inc.
Private
Spencer County, Indiana
US $1,070
The Brauns Family Scholarship, established by Thomas and Vicki Brauns, supports graduating seniors from South Spencer High School who have attended Luce Elementary School for at least two years. The scholarship aims to assist students as they pursue post-secondary education at accredited institutions, contributing to their academic and future success. This initiative reflects the commitment of the Community Foundation Alliance to empower local students and enhance educational opportunities within the community.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Alieene Vance Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation Alliance, Inc.
Private
Spencer County, Indiana
US $1,610
The Alieene Vance Memorial Scholarship, established by Don and Mason Foertsch, honors a former employee of Foertsch Construction. This annual, renewable scholarship aims to support children and grandchildren of Foertsch employees in their pursuit of higher education. Eligible applicants are high school seniors with a minimum GPA of 2.5, and renewal is possible for students maintaining good standing in their college programs. Selection is based on academic performance, leadership, and a required essay.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

McDonough Foundation Grant

Bernard McDonough Foundation
Private
Washington County, Ohio, West Virginia
Unspecified amount
The McDonough Foundation Grant aims to enhance communities in West Virginia by providing funding to nonprofits focused on social welfare. Prioritizing tax-exempt organizations under IRS Code 501(c)(3), the foundation supports initiatives that address basic human needs. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with applicants limited to one grant per calendar year. This commitment helps local organizations overcome resource limitations and fosters community growth through targeted financial support.
Basic Human Needs Health Care Access & Delivery

Sneary, M.D. Max Memorial Scholarship Fund

Noble County Community Foundation
Private
United States
US $2,500

Community Foundation of Noble County

At the Community Foundation of Noble County we are passionate about making Noble County an even better place to call home. Since 1991, area residents have been turning to the Community Foundation of Noble County to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible, as we see it as our mission to serve as a catalyst for positive change. The Community Foundation of Noble County is a public charity 501 (c) 3 entity.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of Noble County offers a wide range of scholarships to support local students in achieving their academic and career aspirations. 

Sneary, M.D. Max Memorial Scholarship Fund

Awards $2,500 one-time for a high school senior from Noble County to pursue a career in the medical field, with preference given to East Noble applicants.

Education - Higher Education Medical Education & Professional Training

Lionheart Charitable Trust Grant

Lionheart Charitable Trust
Corporate
Vermont
Unspecified amount
The Lionheart Charitable Trust Grant aims to protect the environment and support underserved communities in Vermont. Established in 2011, this private family foundation focuses on providing grants for environmental initiatives, education, research, and cultural projects. However, it does not fund political campaigns or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to promoting positive social change and enhancing the quality of life for all residents.
Education Art & Culture All fields of work +1 more

Asbjornson University Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Gallatin County, Montana
Unspecified amount
The Asbjornson University Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports students pursuing a degree at the university. Eligible applicants must be graduates of a Montana high school with fewer than 100 students and maintain a minimum 3.2 GPA. This scholarship may be renewable based on continued eligibility. With millions in merit-based awards available, Montana State University aims to recognize outstanding academic achievements and promote student success.
Academic Success & Enrichment Academic Scholarship Programs

Grants for 501(c)(3) Highlights

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


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


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

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.

Filter Grants for 501(c)(3)

Browse Grants for 501(c)(3) by Location

Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming American Samoa District of Columbia Guam Northern Mariana Islands Puerto Rico Virgin Islands Africa Haiti

Related Grant Funding Focus Areas

Browse Other Nonprofit Operations & Capacity Grants

Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits Corporate Grants for Nonprofits Foundation Grants for Nonprofits Grants for Capital Funding Grants for Computers for Nonprofits Grants for Grassroots Organizations Grants for Solar Panels for Nonprofits Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations Marketing Grants for Nonprofits Operating Grants for Nonprofits Private Grants for Nonprofits Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits Seed Grants for Nonprofits Small Grants for Nonprofits Technology Grants Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits

Browse More Local Grants

Local Grants by City

Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in Rockford, IL Grants for Solar Panels for Nonprofits in Oakland, CA Grants for Solar Panels for Nonprofits in Bridgeport, CT Technology Grants in Montgomery, AL Grants for Capital Funding in Little Rock, AR Corporate Grants for Nonprofits in Huntington Beach, CA Seed Grants for Nonprofits in Scranton, PA Grants for Grassroots Organizations in Bridgeport, CT Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Athens, GA Grants for Solar Panels for Nonprofits in Fayetteville, AR Small Grants for Nonprofits in Cleveland, OH Seed Grants for Nonprofits in San Bernardino, CA