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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.

32,000+

Available grants

$8.25B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

32,000+ grants
$8.25B total
$6K median

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32,483 Results based on applied filters

Black Student Success Capacity Building Grants

The Oregon Community Foundation
Private
Oregon
Up to US $50,000
The Oregon Community Foundation offers the Black Student Success Capacity Building Grants to support Black-led organizations in Oregon. With a total funding of $720,000, these grants aim to enhance the operational capacity of these organizations, enabling them to better serve marginalized Black children and families. Eligible organizations can request up to $50,000 for projects focusing on education, community engagement, and culturally responsive programming, contributing to transformative change in the community.
Nonprofit Growth & Development Black American Services

Pleiad Foundation Grant

Pleiad Foundation
Private
Bibb County, Alabama, Blount County, Alabama +23 more
Unspecified amount
The Pleiad Foundation, a private family charitable organization in Birmingham, Alabama, supports local non-profits focused on education, medical research, and the arts. Annually, they provide funding to 20-30 organizations that align with their mission, having donated over $17.5 million since their inception in 1996. They meet once a year in January to make funding decisions, prioritizing causes that reflect the interests of their family members.
Education - Higher Education Health & Medicine Art & Culture

Union Benevolent Association: Spring Direct Service Grant

Union Benevolent Association
Association/Society
Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania
Up to US $20,000
The Union Benevolent Association is offering the Spring Direct Service Grant aimed at nonprofits serving Southwest Philadelphia. With a focus on improving the quality of life for vulnerable communities, grants up to $20,000 will be awarded to support essential needs such as food, shelter, and advocacy efforts. Eligible organizations must have an operating budget under $2 million and prioritize basic needs. This initiative reflects UBA's long-standing commitment to community support and strategic funding.
Poverty Alleviation & Services Basic Human Needs

Dunham Foundation Sponsorship Requests

Dunham Foundation
Private
DuPage County, Illinois, Kane County, Illinois +1 more
Unspecified amount

What We Fund

The Dunham Foundation is committed to providing positive, multi-generational support to all individuals and families in our service area.

We believe that this support lays the groundwork for successful generations to come and builds an infrastructure for a community where all can thrive. The Dunham Foundation invests in the following three areas:

  • Education
  • Economic Growth
  • Community 

Dunham Foundation Sponsorship Requests

We accept grant requests for event sponsorships on a rolling basis throughout the calendar year. We recommend submitting your application at least 60 days prior to your event to allow sufficient time for Board of Directors review.

Request aligns with any of our priority areas and supports a fundraising event, such as an annual gala, golf outing, 5K, etc..

At the conclusion of the fundraising event, we ask that you submit a brief report outlining the results.

Education Economic Services & Development Community Development & Revitalization

Robert and Vivian Edwards Scholarship

Community Foundation of Henderson County
Private
United States
US $1,000

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Individuals, families, organizations and businesses establish funds at the Foundation to carry out their charitable giving now and in the future.

Community Foundation of Henderson County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public charity, governed by a volunteer board of directors, that has been assisting donors fulfill their philanthropic dreams since 1982.

Our Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.

Scholarships

Community Foundation of Henderson County's Scholarship Program began in 1984. Thanks to the generosity of passionate donors, over 2,000 traditional and non-traditional students have been provided more than $10 million in scholarships to pursue higher education.

Robert and Vivian Edwards Scholarship

This scholarship is for a graduate of a Henderson County public, private or parochial high school who plans to enter into the field of veterinary medicine or related studies. This scholarship may be utilized for undergraduate and/or post-graduate studies. The recipient must be a legal resident of the United States.

Education - Higher Education Veterinary Science & Services

NH Local Source Water Protection Grants

New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services
State/Local Government
New Hampshire
Up to US $30,000
The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services offers Local Source Water Protection Grants to enhance the protection of public drinking water sources. Since 1997, funding has supported efforts by municipalities, water suppliers, and local organizations to develop programs that ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources. Eligible projects must contribute to the protection of active or planned public water systems, with a focus on implementation and community engagement.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Abbreviated Grants ($50,000 or less)

Dunham Foundation
Private
DuPage County, Illinois, Kane County, Illinois +1 more
Up to US $50,000

What We Fund

The Dunham Foundation is committed to providing positive, multi-generational support to all individuals and families in our service area.

We believe that this support lays the groundwork for successful generations to come and builds an infrastructure for a community where all can thrive. The Dunham Foundation invests in the following three areas:

  • Education
  • Economic Growth
  • Community 

Abbreviated Grants ($50,000 or less)

We accept grant requests through online submissions on a rolling basis during the calendar year.

At the Dunham Foundation, we strive to honor John C. Dunham's vision for building a healthy, thriving community with our grantmaking.

Through these efforts, we support projects and programs in Education, Economic Growth, and Community that create measurable and lasting impact in the Dunham Foundation Service Area.

If your request aligns with our Economic Growth or Community priority areas and does not exceed $50,000, you may submit an application through the grant portal. 

Education Economic Services & Development Community Development & Revitalization

Modern Enigma Society Memorial Scholarship Fund

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Kansas, Missouri
Unspecified amount

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Modern Enigma Society Memorial Scholarship Fund

The purpose of the Modern Enigma Society Scholarship is to provide scholarships to members of the Modern Enigma Society who intend to further their education at a post-secondary institution or trade/vocational school.

Past receipts may reapply for up to three (3) additional years.

Consideration will be given to the applicant’s academic and civic performance, community service record and essay quality. Scholarship recipients are also expected to give back to the community by completing at least eight (8) hours of community service per quarter for one-year after they receive the scholarship. Scholarship recipients are expected to report back to the Advisory Committee of the Fund at least annually about their community service.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Robert C. & Maureen A. Granger Scholarship Endowment Fund

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley
Private
Illinois
Unspecified amount

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

Robert C. & Maureen A. Granger Scholarship Endowment Fund

The Robert C. and Maureen A. Granger Scholarship Endowment Fund was created to assist graduates of East Aurora High School or West Aurora High School who are furthering their studies in a four-year college or university, seeking a degree in chemistry or chemical engineering.

This scholarship fund was established by Maureen Granger to help aspiring chemists earn a degree in the profession that her husband loved.

Robert (Bob) Granger was a graduate of East Aurora High School where he developed a lifelong interest in chemistry. He graduated from Northwestern University with a degree in chemistry.

He worked for the Burlington Railroad as a chemist/chief chemist for fourteen years. He then took a position with Sears Roebuck in Chicago as a chemist/product engineer until he passed away in 1990 at the age of sixty-one.

He and his wife Maureen were married for forty-one years before his passing. They raised their four children in Aurora.

The intent of this scholarship fund is to assist East Aurora and West Aurora High School graduates pursue a professional career in the field of chemistry.

Education - Higher Education Chemistry Chemical Engineering

Steven Petrow and Julie Petrow-Cohen LGBTQ+ Fellowship

Virginia Center for the Creative Arts
Private
Amherst County, Virginia
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Steven Petrow and Julie Petrow-Cohen LGBTQ+ Fellowship, established in 2016 and awarded by the Virginia Center for the Creative Arts, supports LGBTQ+ writers across genres. This competitive fellowship offers a fully-funded two-week residency at Mt. San Angelo, providing applicants with private accommodations and communal meals. The fellowship aims to foster creativity and diversity within the arts community, encouraging both emerging and established artists to apply and share their unique perspectives.
Writing & Literature LGBTQIA+ Services

Special Interest Grants: The Nightingale Fund Grant

Hampton Roads Community Foundation
Private
Accomack County, Virginia, Chesapeake City, Virginia +7 more
Up to US $500
The Nightingale Fund Grant supports faith communities in creating handmade greeting cards for senior citizens in nursing homes and housebound individuals. Grants typically cover craft supply costs for one year. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in South Hampton Roads, while ineligible projects include fundraising events or capital campaigns. Applications are reviewed as received, ensuring timely assistance for those aiming to foster caring connections through this outreach.
Nursing

Title II Juvenile Justice Delinquency Prevention Formula Grant

Maryland Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention, Youth, and Victim Services
State/Local Government
Maryland
US $50,000 - US $200,000
The Title II Juvenile Justice Delinquency Prevention Formula Grant aims to enhance Maryland’s juvenile justice system by promoting developmental approaches that prioritize accountability without criminalization, alternatives to system involvement, individualized responses based on needs, and public safety. This initiative emphasizes fairness, sensitivity to disparate treatment, and family engagement, aligning with federal mandates under the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974, ensuring comprehensive support and reform for youth.
Juvenile Justice

Cardiac Arrest Research Team (CART) Network RFP

American Heart Association
Association/Society
Canada, United States
Up to US $1,700,000
The Cardiac Arrest Research Team (CART) Network RFP invites U.S.-based researchers to apply for funding from the American Heart Association. With a commitment of $3.4 million USD, the initiative aims to establish a cross-border research network to address critical gaps in cardiac arrest research. Teams will focus on improving detection, survival rates, and health outcomes through collaboration. This funding opportunity emphasizes team-based approaches in three priority research areas, with awards up to $1.7 million USD for competitive projects.
Cardiovascular Diseases & Systems

Baxter Waldman Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation for Nantucket
Private
Nantucket County, Massachusetts
US $1,000 - US $10,000
The Baxter Waldman Memorial Scholarship, funded by the Community Foundation for Nantucket, honors a driven young man by supporting graduating seniors from Nantucket. With an annual award of $2000, it aims to empower students who exhibit Baxter's qualities of confidence, care, and commitment to their goals. This scholarship encourages individuals who are actively engaged in their communities and schools, promoting teamwork and perseverance. Be Baxter strong!
Academic Success & Enrichment Youth Services

Lawrence Saunders Fund Grant

The Lawrence Saunders Fund
Private
Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Chester County, Pennsylvania +4 more
Up to US $5,000
The Lawrence Saunders Fund Grant, established in memory of Lawrence Saunders, supports charitable endeavors with a focus on environmental projects, education for underprivileged children and adults, and social services for those in need. Created by his wife, Dorothy Love Saunders, the fund aims to enhance community welfare through strategic grants derived from its investment portfolio. This philanthropic initiative continues to impact various sectors, promoting sustainability and education.
Environment Education Human & Social Services

Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program for Juvenile Detention Centers

Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services
State/Local Government
Virginia
Unspecified amount

Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program for Juvenile Detention Centers

Purpose

The Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) is accepting applications for the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (Byrne/JAG) Program for Juvenile Detention Centers. This grant program supports local and regional juvenile detention centers through funding training, equipment, and supplies. Byrne/JAG funds allow states and units of local government, including tribes, to support a broad range of crime control and prevention activities based on state and local needs and conditions. As the state administrative agency, DCJS is responsible for managing the coordination and distribution of Byrne/JAG funds in a manner that supports and improves the criminal justice system in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Funding Source Funding for this grant program is available through the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (Byrne/JAG).

Expected Total Amount of Funding

  • DCJS anticipates approximately $300,000 in funding will be available for awards under this funding opportunity.
  • Availability of Continuation Funding Continuation funding is not available under this grant program.
  • Match Requirement Recipients of these funds are required to provide matching funds of 25% under this funding opportunity.
  • Disbursement of Funds Disbursement of funds will occur on a costreimbursement basis for actual funds expended.
Juvenile Justice

Gustafson Fritz Scholarship for Women

Community Foundation of the North State
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Community Foundation of the North State

The Community Foundation builds trust through relationship, integrity, and by providing safe places for donors to give their resources.

We are a nonprofit, public charity serving the people of Shasta, Siskiyou and Tehama counties, with a mission to impact the region through the power of giving.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of the North State manages many scholarship funds that are awarded to graduating high school seniors as well as students already in an undergraduate program. Some scholarships were started by families or individuals; others by businesses or organizations. All scholarships share one important focus: helping young people reach their educational goals.

Gustafson Fritz Scholarship for Women

An opportunity for female high school graduates in Shasta or Trinity County who demonstrate attributes of generosity, creativity, exemplary work ethic and kindness.

Patricia “Pat” L. Gustafson was an exceptional woman. She was known for her stewardship, generosity, creativity, exemplary work ethic and kindness. Continuing the legacy gifted to her by Pat, her “daughter”, Lynn E. Fritz, the Guftason Fritz Scholarship for Women honors her by awarding support to other women demonstrating like attributes in their journey of self-discovery, empowerment, education and community service.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Jaden Lauderdale Memorial Scholarship

Greene County Foundation Inc.
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Jaden Lauderdale Memorial Scholarship

The Jaden Lauderdale Memorial Scholarship was established in 2017 by Doug and Jessica Lauderdale in memory of their daughter. Jaden was a 14 year old with a huge heart and always thought of others. She was waiting for a heart transplant at Riley. Her family wanted to continue Jaden's giving attitude by presenting an annual scholarship to one Greene County senior seeking a 2 or 4-year degree in the medical field.

Education - Higher Education Medical Education & Professional Training

Equus Research Career Award

Equus Foundation Inc
Private
United States
US $6,500
The Equus Veterinary Research Fellowship, established by the Equus Foundation and The Foundation For The Horse, offers a $5,000 scholarship and a $500 travel stipend to support equine research. Open to graduates of AVMA-accredited veterinary schools nearing residency or doctoral completion, this fellowship encourages innovative research in horse health care. Applications are accepted from mid-July to August, promoting the advancement of equine veterinary practices and the training of future researchers.
Veterinary Science & Services Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Child Advocacy Center Services Grant

Maryland Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention, Youth, and Victim Services
State/Local Government
Maryland
Up to US $12,500
The Child Advocacy Center Services Grant focuses on enhancing services for child abuse victims through a coordinated approach. Funded by the Maryland Governor’s Office, this initiative aims to support multi-disciplinary teams that ensure children are treated with care and compassion during investigations. With $300,000 available for accredited centers, the program emphasizes collaboration among law enforcement, social workers, and protective services to safeguard Maryland's vulnerable youth.
Child Abuse & Neglect

Education Focused Giving

Genentech Foundation
Corporate
United States
Unspecified amount

Education Focused Giving

At Genentech, we invest in bold ideas and innovative solutions that address systemic inequities in science and medicine to advance a more just healthcare system. We focus on efforts that diversify the scientific and medical workforce, advance health equity, and help our communities thrive. We also further advance excellence in medicine and healthcare through our grants for independent medical education. IIncluding efforts to promote diversity in STEM across the education pathway, and efforts to support continuing medical education of healthcare providers. Select the option below that best fits your grant focus:

There are multiple ways to apply for funding. Before you submit an application, we encourage you to explore the following materials to learn more about our opportunities for funding, eligibility requirements and considerations, and the process for submitting a proposal within our Funding Request System (gFRS).

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Medical Education & Professional Training

Strengthening Local Public Health Capacity Grant Program

State of New Jersey Department of Health
State/Local Government
New Jersey
Up to US $4,393,779
The Strengthening Local Public Health Capacity Grant Program, offered by the New Jersey Department of Health, aims to enhance public health infrastructure and outbreak preparedness. This initiative focuses on addressing chronic diseases through evidence-based strategies, collaborating with local stakeholders to improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations. By supporting workforce development and data modernization, the program seeks to ensure a healthier future for all New Jersey residents, ultimately reducing premature deaths and disabilities.
Epidemiology & Public Health Disaster Preparedness

Grow Wild Grant Program

National Wilderness Stewardship Alliance
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Grow Wild Grant Program, offered by the National Wilderness Stewardship Alliance, aims to establish a wilderness stewardship group for every Wilderness area in the National Wilderness Preservation System. This initiative supports start-up groups and existing organizations seeking to expand their impact. Funded by The David Berolzheimer Foundation, it honors Elaine Dermody, a dedicated wilderness champion. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized nonprofits and those with qualified fiscal sponsors.
Environmental Stewardship

C.C. "Bus" and Freda Dugger Endowed Scholarship Fund

Amarillo Area Foundation
Corporate
Texas
More than US $2,000
The C.C. "Bus" and Freda Dugger Endowed Scholarship Fund, managed by the Amarillo Area Foundation, supports Texas Panhandle students attending West Texas A&M University. Eligible applicants must be sophomore college students from the top 26 counties in the region with a minimum GPA of 3.0. This scholarship promotes educational success and community development, ensuring that deserving students can pursue their academic goals while contributing to the quality of life in the Texas Panhandle.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Dance Workforce Resilience (DWR) Fund

Dance/NYC
Private
Bergen County, New Jersey, Hudson County, New Jersey +5 more
US $1,000
The Dance Workforce Resilience (DWR) Fund, established by Dance/NYC, provides one-time grants of $1,000 to support freelance dancers in the NYC area. With a total of $324,000 available, this fund aims to assist over 320 dancers who have completed contracted work between January 1, 2025, and April 30, 2026. Eligibility includes being 18 or older and residing in the metropolitan NYC area. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until March 2026.
Dance

Dance Advancement Fund

Dance/NYC
Private
Bergen County, New Jersey, Hudson County, New Jersey +5 more
US $6,000 - US $40,000
The Dance Advancement Fund, supported by the Howard Gilman Foundation and Ford Foundation, aims to empower dance-making organizations in the NYC area with budgets between $25,000-$250,000. Grants range from $6,000 to $40,000 over two years, fostering artistic growth and professional development from September 2024 to August 2026. Eligible applicants must have at least three years of local dance-making experience, demonstrate a commitment to diversity, and provide proof of 501(c)(3) status or fiscal sponsorship.
Dance

Oak Foundation: Learning Differences Grant Programme

The Oak Foundation USA
Private
Ethiopia, Europe +1 more
Unspecified amount
The Oak Foundation's Learning Differences Grant Programme aims to foster equitable educational experiences for students with learning differences, particularly those marginalized by racism and poverty. Through strategic partnerships with not-for-profit organizations, the program enhances understanding of diverse learners' needs, translates knowledge into effective practices, and influences systemic changes to create supportive learning environments. The initiative emphasizes the importance of community involvement, ensuring that students' voices are heard and their educational needs are met.
Learning Disabilities

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.