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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

Do Something Great Awards - The Robert and Bev Ketenbrink Community Commitment Award

Heart of Illinois Community Foundation
Association/Society
Macon County, Illinois
Unspecified amount
The Do Something Great Awards, presented by the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation, recognize individuals, couples, or families who have demonstrated exceptional generosity and civic responsibility in Macon County. This award not only honors their contributions but also includes a $1,000 grant to the recipient's charity of choice. Celebrating 22 years of impactful philanthropy, these awards encourage community involvement and inspire others to engage in charitable acts.
Community Development & Revitalization Civic Affairs Civic Leadership Development

Deaf Smith Electric Cooperative, Inc, Scholarship

Amarillo Area Foundation
Corporate
Castro County, Texas, Deaf Smith County, Texas +2 more
More than US $2,000
The Deaf Smith Electric Cooperative, Inc. Scholarship, provided by the Amarillo Area Foundation, aims to support students aspiring to attend accredited universities, junior colleges, or vocational schools. Eligible applicants must be members or dependents of members of the Deaf Smith Electric Cooperative. This scholarship is available to high school seniors and first-time applicants. The Foundation emphasizes the importance of completing a general scholarship application and maintaining a minimum GPA for continued eligibility.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

New York City Small Theatres Fund

Alliance Of Resident Theatres New York Inc
Private
New York County, New York
US $7,500 - US $10,000
The New York City Small Theatres Fund, established in collaboration with the Howard Gilman Foundation, offers vital support to small nonprofit theatre companies in NYC with budgets under $250,000. This fund provides annual grants ranging from $7,500 to $10,000 over two years, fostering diverse artistic expressions and enhancing production capabilities. By engaging a wide array of communities, this initiative aims to empower historically under-resourced theatres and promote equity in the vibrant landscape of New York City's performing arts.
Theater

The Congressman Mark Foley Scholarship for Environmental Studies Fund

Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Scholarships support aspiring college students who hold the promise of tomorrow’s progress.

Together, our competitive grants and scholarships help our region rise thanks to the vision and generosity of our donors.

The Congressman Mark Foley Scholarship for Environmental Studies Fund

Must pursue an undergraduate degree in Environmental Studies.

Education - Higher Education Environmental Education

Simeon J. Fortin Charitable Foundation Grant

Simeon J. Fortin Charitable Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Simeon J. Fortin Charitable Foundation, founded in 1986, champions cancer research initiatives aimed at finding a cure. It supports relevant projects and fellowships within medical and research institutions, ensuring a significant impact on health-related research. The grant review process is conducted by The Medical Foundation, in coordination with the King Trust Postdoctoral Fellowships, enhancing collaboration and funding opportunities for innovative research in oncology.
Cancer / Oncology

Tourism Grant Program

Loudoun County
State/Local Government
Loudoun County, Virginia
Up to US $25,000
The Loudoun County Tourism Grant Program provides funding to support tourism initiatives that align with the county's goals. With increased maximum awards up to $25,000 and waived matching requirements, this program aims to enhance marketing efforts and drive visitor engagement. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and businesses looking to attract regional and national visitors. Unallowable expenses include corporate debts and entertainment costs. This initiative is vital for revitalizing tourism post-pandemic.
Tourism

J. William Gholston Foundation Grant

Tr Uw J William Gholston
Private
Madison County, Georgia
Unspecified amount
The J. William Gholston Foundation Grant supports charitable organizations aiming to enhance educational opportunities for children in Comer, Georgia. This grant prioritizes projects that bolster academic achievement, whether through capital improvements or instructional enhancements. While funding is typically awarded for one year, there may be occasional multi-year support available. Eligible applicants are nonprofits that can demonstrate a direct benefit to the local community, ensuring that the focus remains on the educational advancement of children in the area.
Educational Access & Equity

Bisbee Foundation General Operating Grants

Arizona Community Foundation
Private
Cochise County, Arizona
Unspecified amount
The Bisbee Foundation, part of the Arizona Community Foundation, supports non-profit organizations through General Operating Grants aimed at enhancing the unique historical and cultural qualities of Bisbee. Eligible organizations must have tax-exempt status and a two-year programming history. Grants require matching funds and are intended for operational support rather than construction or travel. The foundation focuses on preserving Bisbee's artistic heritage, ensuring its vibrant community continues to thrive.
Community Culture & Heritage Historic Preservation

Bisbee Foundation Mini Grants for Individuals

Arizona Community Foundation
Private
Cochise County, Arizona
Up to US $500
The Bisbee Foundation Mini Grants for Individuals provide funding up to $500 to support community-benefiting programs in arts, humanities, education, and historic preservation. These grants aim to enhance Bisbee's cultural character and preserve its unique history and environment. Eligible applicants must demonstrate how their initiatives positively impact the community. However, grants will not be awarded to individuals or organizations that discriminate on the basis of race, gender, or other characteristics.
Community Culture & Heritage Historic Preservation

Hospice Trust of Trumbull County Grant Program

Community Foundation Of Mahoning Valley
Private
Trumbull County, Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Hospice Trust of Trumbull County Grant Program, initiated by the Community Foundation of Mahoning Valley, supports organizations that promote hospice services, care, and education in Trumbull County. Established in 1999, the Foundation advocates for strategic philanthropy, focusing on community needs and collaborative efforts. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized public charities and fiscal sponsors, with grants available for programmatic, operational, or capital needs, ensuring that local residents benefit directly from funded initiatives.
Hospice / End of Life Care

21st Century Fellowship: Specialized Fellowship

Society for Ethnomusicology
Private
Canada, United States
US $7,500
The 21st Century Fellowship: Specialized Fellowship, offered by the Society for Ethnomusicology, aims to enhance ethnomusicological research by providing $7,500 awards to two Ph.D. students for dissertation fieldwork. Eligible applicants must achieve ABD status and conduct a minimum of six months of full-time research. Preference is given to onsite fieldwork and students from marginalized groups or those with limited funding for their research.
Music

Public Education Foundation Fund for Instructional Innovation

Berks County Community Foundation
Private
Berks County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount

Berks County Community Foundation

Berks County Community Foundation was founded in 1994 to help individuals, families, organizations and businesses achieve their charitable objectives. Since that time, the foundation has grown to manage hundreds of charitable funds. Each year, the funds distribute millions of dollars in scholarships and grants to support local students and nonprofit organizations and causes.

Public Education Foundation Fund for Instructional Innovation

Grants support innovative teaching programs in Berks County public schools.

Education - K through 12 Academic Success & Enrichment

Diversity Alliance Endowment Fund

Berks County Community Foundation
Private
Berks County, Pennsylvania
Up to US $2,300

Berks County Community Foundation

Berks County Community Foundation was founded in 1994 to help individuals, families, organizations and businesses achieve their charitable objectives. Since that time, the foundation has grown to manage hundreds of charitable funds. Each year, the funds distribute millions of dollars in scholarships and grants to support local students and nonprofit organizations and causes.

Diversity Alliance Endowment Fund

Grants support and strengthen projects or programs that address issues affecting the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community in Berks County.

LGBTQIA+ Services Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Astronomical Society of Kansas City Astronomy Scholarship Fund

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Kansas, Missouri
US $1,000

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.

Astronomical Society of Kansas City Astronomy Scholarship Fund

This fund was established by the Astronomical Society of Kansas City to provide academic scholarships to students who have expressed an interest in studying Astronomy, or a related field, and have been accepted into the Department of Physics at University of Missouri-Kansas City. Scholarship support must be used for tuition and/or class-related materials (i.e. textbooks, lab fees, equipment).

Astronomy & Astrophysics Education - Higher Education

Carol T. Berner Women in STEM Scholarship Fund

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Missouri
US $5,000

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.

Carol T. Berner Women in STEM Scholarship Fund

The purpose of this fund is to encourage women in Missouri to be active and succeed in science, technology, engineering, and math.

Carol T. Berner M.D. was a believer in music, art, and equality. Since very young, she was consistently being dissuaded from her goals. By the time she was accepted to Medical school at Saint Louis University, she was one of the only females in her class. She was unceasing in her care for her patient’s, family, and friends. Her belief in equality extended to them all.

Students are able to reapply each year.

Education - Higher Education STEM / STEAM Education

Foley Equipment Scholarship Fund

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Kansas, Missouri
Up to US $2,000

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.

Foley Equipment Scholarship Fund

This scholarship is established to support mechanically-inclined high school students seeking a technical college or post-secondary degree focused on a career in heavy equipment, diesel, and/or electric power generation.

Preference will be given to women and minorities. This scholarship is renewable for up to 2 years as long as the student remains eligible.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Henry, Trina, Laurianna Wash Family Scholarship Fund

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Kansas, Missouri
US $1,000

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.

Henry, Trina, Laurianna Wash Family Scholarship Fund

The purpose of this scholarship fund is to allow African American young men who have graduated from the High Asperations program to get scholarships for 2 or 4 year colleges and/or vocational/trade schools.

This scholarship is named after the foundation family of High Aspirations. The scholarship is named after them for their tireless work they have done in the Kansas City community through High Aspirations, Inc. since 2003.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Hillcrest Transitional Housing Youth 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.

Hillcrest Transitional Housing Youth Scholarship Fund

The purpose of the Fund shall be to provide scholarships to current residents or graduates of Hillcrest’s Youth Program who demonstrate a desire and an aptitude to pursue higher education.

In evaluating applicants, the student’s response to an essay question in the scholarship application inviting them to express personally why they are pursuing their education will be a determining factor.

Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis and disbursed in equal payments to the educational institution in August and January.

Applications are accepted year round however formal announcements will be made in April and November of each year.

Students may reapply annually up to four years as long as the student is making progress towards earning a degree. Progress towards earning a degree includes: a minimum of 6 credit hours per semester or its equivalent, passing classes, being in good standing with the educational institution, not dropping out, and other criteria as determined by the Youth Scholarship Committee.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Thrive Scholarship

Legacy Foundation: Lake County's Community Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,000

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Thrive Scholarship

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.

Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Lois Ibsen al-Faruqi Award

Society for Ethnomusicology
Private
Afghanistan, Albania +49 more
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Lois Ibsen al-Faruqi Award, presented by the Society for Ethnomusicology, recognizes the scholarly contributions of music scholars or institutions within the Islamic world. Established in 1955, the Society promotes research and performance of music across cultures and history. Awardees receive a three-year membership, including subscriptions to Ethnomusicology and the SEM Newsletter, along with additional member benefits, fostering a vibrant community of music scholars.
Music

New Music Creator Fund

New Music Usa Inc
Private
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Unspecified amount
The New Music Creator Fund provides financial support to individual music creators across all genres, helping them advance their creative practice. This initiative covers costs associated with developing new work and collaborative projects. Applicants must be at least 21 years old and have three years of professional music experience. The fund aims to empower diverse music creators in the U.S. by facilitating the development of innovative musical ideas and fostering artistic collaboration.
Music

Central Georgia Empowerment Fund

Community Foundation of Central Georgia
Private
Bibb County, Georgia, Houston County, Georgia +1 more
Up to US $5,000
The Central Georgia Empowerment Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, fosters Black leadership and supports nonprofits serving the Black community. Members contribute $325 annually to enhance life quality and sustainability for marginalized African Americans. Grants are awarded based on presentations at an annual event. Eligibility includes being a 501(c)(3) organization, having a budget under $500,000, and demonstrating a commitment to Black-led initiatives that benefit the local community.
Black American Services

Kansas Association of Independent Crop Consultants Scholarship Fund

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Alabama, Arkansas +19 more
US $1,000

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.

Kansas Association of Independent Crop Consultants Scholarship Fund

The Kansas Association of Independent Crop Consultants created this scholarship fund to award to a qualified individual majoring in an agricultural field.

Education - Higher Education Agriculture

UrbanGlass Studio Residencies

UrbanGlass
Association/Society
New York
US $5,000
The UrbanGlass Studio Residencies provide a unique opportunity for artists to explore glass as a creative medium. Selected artists receive a $5,000 budget for studio rentals and materials, culminating in a public presentation of their work. UrbanGlass, a prominent resource for glass art, encourages independent artists and collaborative pairs to apply, with a focus on amplifying underrepresented voices in the arts. This residency fosters innovation and community engagement in the vibrant field of glass artistry.
Artist Residencies

Bisbee Foundation Project Grants

Arizona Community Foundation
Private
Cochise County, Arizona
Unspecified amount
The Bisbee Foundation Project Grants support non-profit organizations in Arizona, focusing on arts, humanities, education, and historic preservation. Grants are available on a matching basis for projects that enhance Bisbee's cultural heritage. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and have a two-year programming history. Funding cannot exceed 20% of the organization's budget, and recipients must submit completion reports to qualify for future grants. The program emphasizes collaboration and community engagement.
Community Culture & Heritage Historic Preservation

AO Spine NA Fellowship Award

Ao North America Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The AO Spine NA Fellowship Award aims to fund post-graduate fellowship programs at institutions in North America, covering expenses such as stipends, research, and education. This award is limited in number and contingent upon available funding as determined by the AO Spine NA Board. Applications undergo a rigorous review based on established criteria, while the engagement of faculty and compliance with eligibility requirements are critical for the selection process.
Spinal Cord Injuries

RFA- Local Training and Education Program for the Prevention of Domestic Violence (DV)

California Department of Public Health
State/Local Government
California
Up to US $1,171,200

California Department of Public Health

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) works to protect the public’s health and shape positive health outcomes for individuals, families and communities. Public health is for everyone; not just in emergencies but in everyday life — from heart health and mental wellness to food safety and the prevention of infectious and chronic diseases. Our programs and services, in collaboration with local health departments, state, federal and private partners, touch the lives of every Californian and visitor, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Injury and Violence Prevention (IVP) Branch

Mission

To prevent and reduce Domestic Violence (DV) by accelerating the adoption, implementation, and impact of policy, system, and environmental (PSE) change strategies within California communities. 

Local Training and Education Program for the Prevention of Domestic Violence (DV)

Purpose

The California Department of Public Heath, Injury and Violence Prevention Program (CDPH/IVPB) is soliciting applications from eligible entities for its Domestic Violence Prevention (DVP) Program. The primary purpose of this Request for Application (RFA) is to implement local community organizing and/or public health policy, system, and environmental change efforts to increase public awareness of Domestic Violence (DV) and support community-led efforts to adopt and implement primary prevention strategies that improve the scope and quality of services provided to victims of DV.

Domestic Violence

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.