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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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32,499 Results based on applied filters

Raven Fund Career Technical Education Scholarships

CIRI Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $9,000
The Raven Fund Career Technical Education Scholarships, offered by the CIRI Foundation, aim to support CIRI voting shareholders pursuing technical skill training. With awards up to $9,000 per year, eligible applicants must be enrolled in recognized programs and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. The scholarships cover essential educational expenses, including tuition and fees, and also allow for personal expenses under certain conditions. This initiative fosters economic self-sufficiency and educational advancement among Alaska Native beneficiaries.
Academic Scholarship Programs Vocational & Trade Education

Kansas Foster and Adoptive Children Scholarship Fund

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Kansas
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.

Kansas Foster and Adoptive Children Scholarship Fund

This fund was established to provide scholarships for any type of further education beyond high school including college, junior college, vocational, technical or other trade schools.

The type and amount of aid may include, but is not necessarily limited to tuition, room and board, books, etc

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Retail Food Safety Regulatory Association Collaboration

US Department of Health & Human Services: Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Federal Government
United States
US $4,000,000
The Retail Food Safety Regulatory Association Collaboration program supports state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) food safety initiatives to mitigate food-borne illness risks. Funded by the FDA, this initiative aids SLTT agencies in research and intervention implementation, aiming to enhance public health and establish a cohesive national food safety framework. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations connected to higher education institutions, focusing on retail food safety.
Food Safety

Civic Foundation Scholarship : Student Scholarships

Civic Foundation Inc
Private
United States
US $5,000

About our scholarships

We partner with Civic Federal Credit Union to provide both professional development and student scholarships.

Over many years, the scholarships have provided nearly $3.5 million to credit union members to further their education. This investment not only advances the professional development and educational goals of Civic members, but also strengthens the communities they serve — amplifying their leadership impact and deepening their ability to drive meaningful change across North Carolina.

Civic Foundation Scholarship

Each year, Civic proudly awards $5,000 scholarships to 25 Civic members who are graduating high school seniors and are planning to attend a four-year college or university. These one-time scholarships are paid directly to the student’s school in a single installment and may be applied toward tuition, textbooks, computers, or other educational expenses.

Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Raven Fund Jump Start Award

CIRI Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $2,000
The Raven Fund Jump Start Award, established by the CIRI Foundation, provides scholarships of up to $2,000 per year for CIRI voting shareholders who are high school students. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a recognized post-secondary education program, maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0. The funding covers direct educational costs such as tuition, books, and housing. The award allows for multiple applications within the year, encouraging ongoing educational pursuits.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Raven Fund Scholarships

CIRI Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $3,500
The Raven Fund Scholarships, offered by the CIRI Foundation, support educational aspirations for CIRI voting shareholders who are not original shareholders or descendants. Award amounts include $200 per credit for full-time students, up to $3,000 per term, and similar support for part-time students. Funds cover tuition, fees, books, supplies, and housing. Applicants must have a high school diploma, be enrolled in an accredited program, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 to qualify.
Academic Scholarship Programs Education - Higher Education

Lamond GenNext Award

Namm Foundation
Private
Orange County, California
US $750
The Lamond GenNext Award, provided by the NAMM Foundation, supports students enrolled in college or technical programs related to music and entertainment technology. Awardees receive a $750 stipend and a badge for The NAMM Show, facilitating valuable networking and professional development opportunities. Eligible applicants must be sophomores or higher with a minimum GPA of 3.0, and the application cycle opens on April 21, closing on September 8.
Music

Specialty Crop Block Grant Program ( MT)

Montana Department of Agriculture
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, managed by the Montana Department of Agriculture, aims to enhance the marketability and competitiveness of specialty crops in Montana. This program invites applications from various entities, including local organizations and academia, to develop projects focusing on food safety, research, and sustainability. By supporting the specialty crop industry, the program fosters growth and innovation, benefiting producers and consumers alike.
Agricultural Crops

Special Excellence Scholarship

CIRI Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $20,000
The Special Excellence Annual Scholarship, offered by the CIRI Foundation, supports full-time students in 4-year undergraduate or graduate programs who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and community service. With awards up to $20,000 for one academic year, this merit-based scholarship emphasizes the importance of maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.7 and encourages contributions to the Alaska Native community. This initiative fosters educational success and economic self-sufficiency among Alaska Natives and their descendants.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Community Foundation of Ozarks: Welcoming Communities Grant

Community Foundation of the Ozarks Inc.
Private
Barry County, Missouri, Barton County, Missouri +59 more
Up to US $25,000
The Community Foundation of the Ozarks offers the Welcoming Communities Grant to promote inclusion and belonging in its service area. With $120,000 available and individual awards capped at $25,000, this program prioritizes agencies focused on creating a sense of belonging for underserved communities. Applicants should aim to raise awareness of access issues and improve civic participation, ultimately fostering long-term positive changes in community conditions for marginalized groups.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Civic Engagement & Education

YouthBridge Community Foundation: Child Welfare Capacity Building Grant

Youthbridge Community Foundation
Private
St. Louis County, Minnesota
US $10,000

About YouthBridge

We are the bridge between donors, nonprofits and the potential of our region.

At YouthBridge Community Foundation, caring for the future of St. Louis is at the heart of everything we do. We help charitably-minded individuals, families and businesses support causes that serve children and their families in our region. We work with professional advisors to offer philanthropy planning to their clients. And above all, we are building the bridge to a stronger, more vibrant community.

Child Welfare Capacity Building Grant

The Child Welfare Capacity Building Grant will aid and support nonprofits whose primary mission is to ensure the safety, permanency, and well-being of children by addressing child abuse and neglect through foster/adoption care, prevention, and treatment of child abuse.

This grant will provide resources for organizations to build strong staff and boards, plan for their futures, evaluate programs, improve finances, support critical indirect staff positions, and update technology so they can serve the community with a sense of confidence. Award amounts will generally be $10,000.

Guidelines

YouthBridge Community Foundation will award grants to child or youth serving nonprofit organizations that are located in and primarily serve the St. Louis metropolitan area.

Child Welfare Services Youth Services

West Seattle Garden Tour Grant

WEST SEATTLE GARDEN TOUR
Private
King County, Washington
Unspecified amount
The West Seattle Garden Tour Grant supports organizations that promote horticulture, education, and artistic endeavors in West Seattle and neighboring communities. Grants typically range from $2,000 to $6,000, with larger and smaller amounts occasionally awarded. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) organizations or have fiscal partners with that status. Presentations are required for consideration, highlighting project goals and their alignment with the Garden Tour's mission, and must follow specific guidelines.
Education Horticulture & Gardening Artist Training & Development

Waukesha Education Foundation Grants

Waukesha Education Foundation
Association/Society
Waukesha County, Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Waukesha Education Foundation Grants aim to enhance educational experiences for students in the Waukesha School District by providing funding for innovative and enrichment programs not covered by the district's budget. Applications are open to educators and staff, promoting creative opportunities that recognize quality work and extend core curriculum activities. The grants are solicited annually in spring, fostering community involvement in education.
Educational Access & Equity

Goleta Child Care Grant

Santa Barbara Foundation
Private
Santa Barbara County, California
Up to US $15,000
The Goleta Child Care Grant, offered by the Santa Barbara Foundation, addresses the critical shortage of quality child care in Goleta, where demand greatly exceeds supply. This program aims to enhance the capacity of local child care providers and support workforce development to ensure safe and enriching environments for children. By prioritizing professional development and organizational improvement in child care services, the grant fosters economic mobility and healthy child development for families in the community.
Child Care Services

Hispanic Development Fund (High School Seniors)

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Cass County, Missouri, Clay County, Missouri +4 more
Approximately 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.

Hispanic Development Fund (High School Seniors)

For more than 40 years, the Hispanic Development Fund Scholarship Program has encouraged Hispanic/Latinx youth to attend college and accomplish their personal goals by awarding more than 6,539 scholarships totaling over $10 million to Kansas City-area students.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

MO Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP): Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE)

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of Missouri
State/Local Government
Missouri
Unspecified amount
The MO Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) offers Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) to assist landowners in restoring and protecting wetlands that have been degraded by agricultural practices. This program enhances habitat for wildlife, improves water quality, and mitigates flooding, while providing landowners with financial support for easement acquisition and restoration efforts. NRCS prioritizes applications that significantly benefit migratory birds and other wildlife, ensuring ecological sustainability and resilience against climate change.
Land / Habitat Conservation

Goldman Foundation: Youth Development Program Grant

John & Marcia Goldman Foundation
Private
San Francisco County, California, San Mateo County, California +1 more
Unspecified amount
The John & Marcia Goldman Foundation supports youth development initiatives aimed at improving the life trajectories of underserved children and families. Through grants, the foundation provides access to essential services and activities in the Mid-Peninsula region of the San Francisco Bay Area, addressing critical service gaps and fostering community engagement. No deadlines exist for proposals, and support is focused on established organizations with a strong capacity for impact.
Youth Development & Leadership

Hispanic Development Fund (Current College Students)

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Cass County, Missouri, Clay County, Missouri +4 more
Approximately 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.

Hispanic Development Fund (Current College Students)

For more than 40 years, the Hispanic Development Fund Scholarship Program has encouraged Hispanic/Latinx youth to attend college and accomplish their personal goals by awarding more than 6,539 scholarships totaling over $10 million to Kansas City-area students.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Julius Axelrod Award in Pharmacology

American Society For Pharmacology And Experimental Therapeutics Inc
Private
Multnomah County, Oregon
US $5,000
The Julius Axelrod Award in Pharmacology, established in 1991, honors the contributions of eminent pharmacologists in neuroscience and biochemistry. Awarded annually by ASPET, it recognizes significant advancements in understanding drug mechanisms and mentoring in pharmacology. Recipients receive a $5,000 honorarium, a medal, and travel expenses for the annual meeting. ASPET encourages nominations from diverse candidates to promote inclusion in the field of pharmacology.
Pharmacology Biochemistry

Native Forward Student Relief Funding

Native Forward Scholars Fund
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount

Native Forward awards are allocated based on the financial aid information provided by the institution’s Financial Aid Office. Awards can vary, ranging from $100 to $30,000 per academic year.

Native Forward Scholars Fund members of federally and state-recognized Tribes as well as first and second-generation descendants. However, Native Forward Scholars Fund scholarship opportunities have different Tribal eligibility requirements and can be determined by submitting a Tribal Eligibility Certificate.

Native Forward Student Relief Funding

Native Forward Scholars Fund established the Student Relief Funding to assist Native students who are facing financial hardships and challenges by providing them with a one-time relief award. The fund will be utilized to help support students in emergency situations that includes, but is not limited to, food insecurity, emergency travel costs, emergency housing costs, educational technology or technology-related resources, or other educational expenses.

Indigenous Services

CFNV Plein Environmental Scholarship Fund

The Community Foundation for Northern Virginia
Private
Alexandria City, Virginia, Arlington County, Virginia +4 more
US $5,000

Community Foundation for Northern Virginia

Founded in 1978, the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia is a tax-exempt trusted public charity that advances equity through philanthropy and community leadership. Its work is guided by a strategic plan that advances four key priorities for the region:

  • Social and Economic Mobility
  • Opportunities for All
  • Inclusive Systems of Economic Growth
  • Community Resilience

Plein Environmental Scholarship Fund

The Plein Environmental Scholarship Fund provides scholarships to benefit graduating high school seniors and current NVCC students in need of financial assistance pursuing an associate degree at Northern Virginia Community College and intending to receive admission to a four-year university to pursue a degree in an environmental-related field.

Education - Higher Education Environmental Education

Florence Foundation Grants

Florence Foundation
Private
Texas
US $5,000 - US $50,000
The Florence Foundation Grants support educational, scientific, and charitable initiatives, focusing on Texas-based 501(c)(3) organizations, especially in Dallas County. Established in 1956, the foundation has awarded over $3 million to assist in various areas including public education, scientific research, and community welfare. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000, with a preference for projects that address significant social issues and enhance community well-being.
Education Health & Medicine Religion & Spirituality +1 more

Dallas- Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG)

Dallas County Texas
State/Local Government
Dallas County, Texas
Unspecified amount
The Dallas Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) provides approximately $190,000 annually to support homeless services in Dallas County. These funds are allocated to nonprofit organizations that deliver essential assistance and support to individuals experiencing homelessness. Services include emergency night shelter, transitional housing, and health support. For more information, please contact local partners such as The Bridge Homeless Recovery Center and Housing Forward NTX for resources and assistance.
Homelessness Services

Dr Don Fager Nursing Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Washington
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

The Community Foundation of NCW is a tax-exempt philanthropic organization that helps individuals, families, businesses, and agencies support charitable causes throughout Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties.

Dr Don Fager Nursing Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to current or previous Wenatchee Valley College nursing students seeking further education in a nursing program at an accredited school in the United States of America.

Nursing

Interlace Grant Fund: Emergency Grants

Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts
Private
Providence County, Rhode Island
Up to US $500
The Interlace Grant Fund offers Emergency Grants to visual artists in the Providence area facing urgent needs like eviction or healthcare costs. Applications are accepted monthly, with awards between $50 and $500, totaling $1250 each month. Artists can apply repeatedly until they reach a maximum of $500. The grants are unrestricted and do not require reporting, ensuring support is provided without barriers. Recipients will remain anonymous to protect their privacy.
Visual Arts Arts / Culture Access & Participation

Recreational Trails Program Grant

North Carolina State Parks
State/Local Government
North Carolina
US $10,000 - US $100,000
The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Grant, administered by the North Carolina State Parks, supports trail-related projects across the state. Funded through federal gas taxes, this initiative aims to enhance public access to safe and managed recreational trails. Eligible applicants include governmental and non-profit organizations, with a minimum match requirement of 25%. Projects must provide public access and remain open for at least ten years. The RTP promotes sustainable economic development through natural resource tourism.
Trail Creation & Maintenance

Interlace Grant Writing Mentorship Program

Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts
Private
Providence County, Rhode Island
Unspecified amount
The Interlace Grant Writing Mentorship Program connects emerging visual artists with experienced mentors who have successfully navigated grant writing. This initiative supports newer artists in crafting proposals and developing project management skills essential for their creative pursuits. Eligible participants must reside within 10 miles of Providence, Rhode Island, be at least 18 years old, and have not received an Interlace Project Grant as a lead applicant in the past two years. This program fosters growth and opportunity in the art community.
Visual Arts Artist Training & Development

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.