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

Atlanta Community Food Bank Partnerships

Atlanta Community Food Bank Inc
Private
DeKalb County, Georgia, Fulton County, Georgia
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Atlanta Community Food Bank invites local organizations to partner in the mission to end hunger. We support over 700 community-based agencies, including schools, in providing essential food assistance. We prioritize partnerships that can operate during weekends and evenings to better serve those in need. Interested agencies must meet specific eligibility criteria, including being a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and demonstrating community need. Join us to make a significant impact in the fight against hunger.
Food Access & Hunger

Community Power Play Grant

Minnesota Wild Foundation
Private
Minnesota
US $10,000
The Community Power Play Grant, funded by the Minnesota Wild and Xcel Energy, awards three $10,000 grants during the 2025-26 NHL season to support Minnesota-based nonprofit organizations. These grants aim to enhance youth and amateur hockey through financial assistance for participation fees, ice time, and rink improvements. This initiative helps foster community engagement and accessibility in hockey, encouraging more children to experience the sport and supporting local facilities.
Hockey

Houston Food Bank: School Market Program

Houston Food Bank
Private
Fort Bend County, Texas, Harris County, Texas +1 more
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Houston Food Bank's School Market Program aims to alleviate child and teen hunger by providing nutritious food to students and their families at middle and high schools. With one in five children in Southeast Texas facing food insecurity, this program addresses the needs of adolescents transitioning from traditional food assistance. By empowering students through volunteer opportunities, the program fosters leadership while ensuring access to essential nutrition, which is crucial for academic success and community health.
Food Access & Hunger

Cary R. and Lynn A. Spencer Scholarship

Lincoln Community Foundation Inc
Private
Nebraska
US $3,000
The Cary R. and Lynn A. Spencer Scholarship, established in 2018 by Lincoln Community Foundation, supports students majoring in Physics at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens, graduates of Nebraska high schools, and maintain a minimum 3.5 GPA. Preference may be given to those demonstrating financial need. This scholarship can be renewed with satisfactory academic performance and requires a full reapplication, reflecting LCF's commitment to fostering education and philanthropic legacies.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Dale E. Siefkes Memorial Scholarship

Lincoln Community Foundation Inc
Private
Nebraska
US $400
The Dale E. Siefkes Memorial Scholarship, established in 1996 by the Lincoln Community Foundation, supports Nebraska college students passionate about education. Eligible applicants must be juniors or seniors, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.8, and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship honors Dale E. Siefkes, an advocate for education, providing vital support to future educators while fostering a lasting legacy of giving in Nebraska.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Emerging Philanthropist Program Endowment Fund

The Foundation for Enhancing Communities
Private
Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania
Up to US $2,000
The Emerging Philanthropist Program Endowment Fund empowers Harrisburg's future leaders through philanthropic education and engagement. Celebrating its 10th year, the program offers monthly sessions from February to November, culminating in a $5,000 grant awarded to a selected nonprofit. Established by EPP alumni in 2014, the Endowment Fund enhances community impact with competitive grants, emphasizing mental health support. To date, over $40,000 has been awarded, fostering local nonprofit capacity and community service.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Nonprofit Growth & Development

Dick and Chris Draper Scholarship

Lincoln Community Foundation Inc
Private
Nebraska
US $2,400
The Dick and Chris Draper Scholarship, established by the Draper family, supports young individuals from Elgin, Nebraska. This scholarship honors the legacy of Dick and Chris Draper, emphasizing the family’s commitment to education. Applicants must be graduating seniors from Elgin Public High School or Elgin Pope John XXIII Central Catholic High School. This initiative exemplifies the foundation’s dedication to fostering educational opportunities and building strong community ties.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Jerry Herron Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation Alliance, Inc.
Private
Posey County, Indiana
Unspecified amount
The Jerry Herron Memorial Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation Alliance, supports graduating seniors from Mt. Vernon High School who excel in economics or plan to pursue further education in this field. Applicants must be recommended by the Economics teacher. This scholarship honors the legacy of Jerry Herron while empowering students to achieve their academic goals in economics, fostering their potential to contribute positively to society.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

New Harmony Alumni Scholarship

Community Foundation Alliance, Inc.
Private
Posey County, Indiana
US $2,000
The New Harmony Alumni Scholarship, established by the New Harmony Alumni Association, supports graduating high school seniors or graduates from Harmony Township. Eligible applicants must be alumni of New Harmony School or direct descendants of alumni, and they should be pursuing post-secondary education at any accredited institution. This scholarship is part of the Community Scholarship Program, managed by the Posey County Community Foundation, which connects local donors with students to promote educational advancement.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

PLTW Launch - Program Expansion (John Deere)

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
Aiken County, South Carolina, Alamance County, North Carolina +143 more
US $5,000
The PLTW Launch - Program Expansion grant, funded by the John Deere Foundation, aims to enhance access to STEM education for underserved communities. This initiative supports schools in expanding their PLTW programs and includes training for teachers and resources for students. Priority is given to schools near John Deere facilities that demonstrate need and a commitment to student participation in STEM activities. The project aligns with the foundation's goal to impact one million youth by 2030.
STEM / STEAM Education Teacher Development & Training

Riedford Health Professions Scholarship

Community Foundation Alliance, Inc.
Private
Posey County, Indiana
US $500
The Riedford Health Professions Scholarship, established by anonymous donors, honors Bernard Riedford, a dedicated teacher who introduced Mount Vernon High School students to health care professions. This renewable scholarship supports graduating seniors with a minimum GPA of 3.2 pursuing healthcare-related degrees at accredited institutions in Indiana and Western Kentucky. Recipients must maintain full-time status and a 3.0 GPA, demonstrating commitment to their healthcare studies for continued eligibility.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

PLTW Gateway - Program Expansion (John Deere)

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
Aiken County, South Carolina, Alamance County, North Carolina +143 more
US $10,000
The PLTW Gateway program expansion, funded by the John Deere Foundation, aims to enhance access to STEM education for underserved students in John Deere communities. With a commitment to support 1 million youth by 2030, this initiative provides grants to schools seeking to expand their existing PLTW programs. Eligible schools must be within proximity of John Deere facilities and demonstrate a significant enrollment of students participating in free and reduced lunch programs, ensuring equitable educational opportunities.
STEM / STEAM Education Teacher Development & Training

Community firearm violence intervention and prevention grants (CFVIP)

Washington State Department of Commerce
State/Local Government
Washington
Up to US $400,000
The Community Firearm Violence Intervention and Prevention Grants (CFVIP) by the Washington State Department of Commerce aim to enhance public safety through targeted initiatives in communities disproportionately affected by gun violence. The program prioritizes youth and young adults at high risk, encouraging evidence-based, culturally relevant strategies. With a funding cap of $8 million, grants range from $400,000 for single organizations to $800,000 for collaborative efforts, fostering community-led solutions to reduce firearm violence.
Gun Violence Prevention

Generation of Environmental Leaders Program

Commission for Environmental Cooperation
Association/Society
North America
C $15,000
The Generation of Environmental Leaders Program (GELP) invites youth aged 18-35 from Canada, Mexico, and the United States to propose innovative solutions to environmental challenges. This initiative not only empowers young leaders through mentorship and networking but also provides seed funding to support impactful projects. By encouraging collaboration and sustainable practices, GELP aims to foster long-term benefits for communities and the environment, ultimately preserving shared natural resources.
Environmental Conservation

Ohio's National Archery in the Schools Grant Program

Ohio Department of Natural Resources
State/Local Government
Ohio
Up to US $2,500
Ohio's National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) offers a comprehensive curriculum designed for students in elementary to high school. Over two weeks, participants learn essential archery skills, promoting safety, technique, and self-improvement. This program enhances students' self-esteem, confidence, and attendance while fostering an inclusive environment across diverse backgrounds. By providing standardized equipment and training, NASP ensures equal opportunities for all, positively impacting behavior and academic performance in schools.
Sport Shooting

Robert Lehman Foundation Grant

Robert Lehman Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Robert Lehman Foundation Grant supports visual arts initiatives, including exhibitions, art education programs, scholarly publications, and lectureships. It aims to enhance the role of visual arts in culture, particularly for underserved communities lacking access to art education. The Foundation also funds capital projects that advance cultural programming and broaden audience engagement. By promoting these endeavors, the Foundation seeks to improve lives through artistic access and education.
Visual Arts Art History

MNAF Research Grant

Minnesota Nurses Association Foundation (MNAF)
Association/Society
Minnesota
Up to US $5,000

About the Foundation 

The Minnesota Nurses Association Foundation (MNAF), a non-profit corporation affiliated with the Minnesota Nurses Association, awards scholarships and grants each year to advance the nursing profession and create more opportunities for students to achieve their goals.About the Grant

The Minnesota Nurses Association Foundation (MNAF) provides funding to MNA members to support research focused on nursing that relate to the Minnesota Nurses Association Organizational Goals and Priorities.MNA Issues and Advocacy

  • Advocacy - MNA members advocate for their patients, profession, and communities through lobbying legislators at the State Capitol and endorsing nurse champions who will support nurse priorities.
  • Education - MNA offers a wide range of learning opportunities to expand your personal and professional growth through the Continuing Education Program.
  • Nursing Practice - MNA promotes, guards, and advances standards of practice and advocates for the effective and appropriate understanding and implementation of professional nursing practice.
Nursing

Innovation Career Pathways--Option 2: 0436: Planning Grant

Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
State/Local Government
Massachusetts
Up to US $15,000

Purpose:

Option 2: 0436 Innovation Carrer Pathways Planning Grant

The purpose of this competitive grant is to provide Innovation Career Pathway program resources to an Local Educational Agency who intends to seek Innovation Career Pathway designation from Department of Elementary and Secondary EducationDESE in school year 2026–2027.

Priorities

  • Supporting applicants in the preparation of their Innovation Career Pathway designation application materials and preparing to implement school-wide My Career and Academic PlanMyCAP as part of the pathway development.
  • Priority will be given to districts and schools in the strategic transformation region and districts and schools that have not received an Innovation Career Pathway designation.

Funding- Option 2

Approximately $450,000 An Local Educational Agency LEA may submit only one application for a maximum award of $15,000 to prepare Innovation Career Pathways Designation applications. This Request for Proposal is the governing document for these grant funds. Funding is contingent upon availability. All dollar amounts listed are estimated/approximate and are subject to change. If more funding becomes available it will be distributed under the same guidelines that appear in this Request for Proposal.

Fund Use

Funds may be used for costs associated with out-of-school time training and meeting time for team members to create the scope and sequence and implementation plan. Allowable uses include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Stipends;
  • Consultant fees;
  • Supplies and materials associated with planning;
  • Other costs related to creative and effective development of a scope and sequence.

Funds must be used in alignment with the purpose and priorities outlined and as described in a budget, budget narrative, and required program information that is submitted to the Department's Office of College, Career and Technical Education (CCTE).

DESE Competitive Grant Submission Policy

Competitive grant applications are considered submitted when the grant application is submitted by the Superintendent or their designee through the "Local Educational Agency Superintendent / Chief Executive Approved" step in Grants for Education Management System. In order to be considered for competitive funding, applicants must submit a grant application through the Local Educational Agency Superintendent Approved stage by the due date and time listed in the Request for Proposal.

Career / College Preparation

Your Chance Scholarship Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $1,000 - US $2,000
The Your Chance Scholarship Fund, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, supports students from the Greater Hartford area, particularly those in Bloomfield. This fund prioritizes high school graduates who have faced interruptions in their college education due to family or financial challenges. With 1-2 awards available, this scholarship aims to assist individuals in pursuing their educational goals at accredited colleges or vocational schools.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Villano-ebbo Scholarship Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $1,000 - US $2,000
The Villano-ebbo Scholarship Fund, managed by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, supports local students from the Greater Hartford region pursuing higher education in technology or entrepreneurship. Established by entrepreneur Vin Villano, this fund is dedicated to aiding one graduating high school senior with a strong academic record and financial need. The Hartford Foundation has a rich history of providing scholarships, contributing nearly $30 million since 1945 to foster educational opportunities for students.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

United Nations Association of Connecticut (For Greater Hartford) Scholarship Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $1,000 - US $1,500
The United Nations Association of Connecticut Scholarship Fund, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, supports students with financial need who are interested in international issues and foreign language studies. Since 1945, the program has awarded nearly $30 million to students pursuing higher education. This scholarship specifically targets those who have demonstrated academic excellence and participation in Model UN or similar programs, offering one award annually to eligible applicants from the Greater Hartford region.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

JCFKC: White Theatre Grantor Fund

Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Kansas City
Private
Johnson County, Kansas
Unspecified amount
The JCFKC: White Theatre Grantor Fund, managed by the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Kansas City, supports Jewish non-profit agencies and synagogues by covering technical and rental fees for events at the Lewis and Shirley White Theatre. Applications are due by the specified deadlines, with rolling acceptance based on fund availability. No agency may receive more than 50% of the annual funds, ensuring equitable distribution across the Jewish community.
Theater

Town and County Club Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
Up to US $5,000
The Town and County Club Fund, established by members of the Town and County Club in Hartford, aims to support adult women pursuing higher education. This initiative is part of the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving's Scholarship Program, which has granted nearly $30 million since 1945. Eligible applicants must be female, 25 years or older, residents of the Hartford area, and enrolled in specific Connecticut colleges with a minimum GPA of 2.5.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Tim and Gerri Sullivan Scholarship Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $3,000
The Tim and Gerri Sullivan Scholarship Fund, administered by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, provides financial support to graduating high school seniors from Hartford attending public schools in Connecticut. This scholarship aims to assist students entering 2-year, 4-year, or vocational colleges on a full-time basis, demonstrating academic achievement and financial need. With a history of over $30 million awarded since 1945, this fund continues to empower local students towards higher education.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

The Walter S. Kapala Scholarship Trust

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $1,500
The Walter S. Kapala Scholarship Trust, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, offers financial support to high-achieving students from public high schools in Hartford or West Hartford. Since 1945, the foundation has awarded nearly $30 million in scholarships, assisting local students in pursuing higher education. This scholarship aims to help 1 to 2 deserving students each year who require financial assistance to achieve their academic goals.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

The Middlebury Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $1,000 - US $4,000
The Middlebury Fund, established in 1942 by Austin L. Adams, provides scholarships for students from Middlebury, CT. Administered by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, it aims to support worthy and intelligent young individuals with financial need. Each year, the fund awards between 5 to 10 scholarships, helping local students pursue higher education opportunities. With a strong legacy since 1945, the Hartford Foundation has invested nearly $30 million in Connecticut college-bound students.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Improving Linkage to Care for People with Opioid Use Disorder (U01)

Dept. of Health & Human Services: Centers for Disease Control & Prevention
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $550,000
The CDC's NCIPC is seeking research proposals to tackle implementation challenges in providing linkage to care services for individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD). This initiative encourages partnerships with public health entities and local healthcare champions to create actionable, evidence-based strategies. The goal is to enhance care access and ensure comprehensive overdose prevention services are available in real-world healthcare settings, thereby improving outcomes for those at risk of opioid overdose.
Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Health Care Access & Delivery

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.