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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

Mentored Patient-Oriented Research Career Development Award (Parent K23 Independent Clinical Trial Required) (353458)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Unspecified amount
The NIH Mentored Patient-Oriented Research Career Development Award (K23) aims to support healthcare professionals with a clinical doctoral degree in their pursuit of patient-oriented research. This award is essential for those committed to advancing their research careers, ensuring they focus on enhancing patient care. Key application deadlines for standard and renewal submissions span from June 2024 to February 2027, providing ample opportunity for interested candidates to apply.
Medical Education & Professional Training Health & Medicine

Margaret F. Moore Foundation Scholarship

Delaware Community Foundation
Private
Delaware
US $2,000 - US $8,000
The Margaret F. Moore Foundation Scholarship, administered by the Delaware Community Foundation, offers $2,000 annually for four years to Delaware residents, especially those from Sussex County, pursuing degrees in Elementary or Secondary Education. With a total scholarship fund of $850,000 for the 2024-2025 academic year, this initiative aims to support students in achieving their educational goals while promoting equity and opportunity within the community.
Education Education - Higher Education

The Congressman Mark Foley Scholarship for Political Science Education 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 Political Science Education Fund

Must be enrolled in a degree program with a major in Political Science.

Education - Higher Education Political Science

SBGP Community Development Fund (CDF)

South Baltimore Gateway Partnership
State/Local Government
Baltimore County, Maryland
Approximately US $50,000

About Us

In 2015, Baltimore adopted the South Baltimore Gateway Master Plan, a sweeping plan to improve neighborhoods across South and Southwest Baltimore that are close to the Horseshoe Casino. The City then began to implement this plan, with the advice of the Local Development Council and funding provided by local impact grants (community grants) generated by area casino revenues.

It soon became clear that another organization was also needed to help spend these funds -– something that could be more flexible, nimble, and entrepreneurial. So, in 2016, the South Baltimore Gateway Partnership was established, governed by a Board of Directors comprised principally of residents and business owners. Now, the City and the Partnership split Baltimore’s share of the local impact grant funds.

In order to successfully implement this ambitious agenda, the SBGP created its own Strategic Plan to narrow its focus to three crucial elements of the South Baltimore Gateway Master Plan:

  • Environmental Sustainability
  • Health and Wellness
  • Community Development and Revitalization
Community Development & Revitalization Wellness & Healthy Living

2026-2027 Title IV, Part A, ESC Capacity Building State Initiative

Texas Education Agency
State/Local Government
Texas
US $632,000

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency is the state agency that oversees primary and secondary public education. It is headed by the commissioner of education. The Texas Education Agency improves outcomes for all public school students in the state by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems.

The Division of Governance Interventions supports TEA’s mission and vision by providing exceptional leadership, guidance, and support to school system leadership teams and governing boards. The division collaborates with external field support agents appointed by the TEA Commissioner of Education to build sustainable systems aligned to core TEA initiatives, so that the school system thrives after the release of agency intervention. 

2026-2027 Title IV, Part A, ESC Capacity Building State Initiative

Program Description

The purpose of the Title IV, Part A, ESC Capacity Building State Initiative (CBSI) grant is to create and provide training, resources, guidance, and build capacity under the Title IV, Part A, program’s three content areas: well-rounded education, safe and healthy students, and the effective use of technology for 20 Education Service Centers (ESCs) and school systems statewide.

Education Academic Success & Enrichment

Level 6-8: Creative Capacity Grant

Arizona Commission on the Arts
State/Local Government
Arizona
US $2,500 - US $24,000

Creative Capacity Grant

A grant is a form of financial assistance. The State of Arizona sets aside a certain amount of money to invest in projects that have strong potential for public benefit.

Through Creative Capacity Grants (CCGs) the State provides general operating support to nonprofit organizations whose primary mission is to produce, present, teach, or serve the arts.

CCGs are available to organizations of all sizes, but application requirements vary.

Who is it for?

Organizations may apply for Creative Capacity Grants, levels 6-8, if they…

  • are based in Arizona,
  • are incorporated as a nonprofit organization with tax-exempt status, or are a unit of municipal or tribal government,
  • have a primary mission to produce, present, teach, or serve the arts,
  • have a minimum annual budget of $400,000, and
  • will incur eligible expenses during the funding period (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027)*

Unincorporated organizations that are otherwise eligible and whose annual budget is below $200,000 may apply through a nonprofit fiscal sponsor.

Art & Culture Arts / Culture Access & Participation

Creative West Artist Fund

Creative West
Private
Alaska, American Samoa +16 more
US $5,000
The Creative West Artist Fund supports artists and cultural practitioners across 16 states, providing essential funding and resources to enhance their emotional and financial well-being. Rooted in values of Democracy, Wellness, and Belonging, this initiative offers no-strings-attached funding alongside coaching and community care. It aims to empower artists as vital contributors to the creative economy, while promoting equitable and trust-based grantmaking practices. The fund serves to foster a rich creative community through collaboration and support.
Art & Culture Economic Services & Development

ECRAC: Essentials Support Grant

East Central Regional Arts Council
Private
Chisago County, Minnesota, Isanti County, Minnesota +3 more
US $3,000 - US $10,000
The East Central Regional Arts Council (ECRAC) offers the Essentials Support Grant, providing funding between $3,000 to $5,000 to non-profit arts organizations in Minnesota's Region 7E. This grant supports ongoing operational expenses, fostering arts access and education while enhancing community engagement through cultural heritage activities. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)3 organizations with a history of arts programming. This funding is crucial for sustaining the arts and enriching local cultural landscapes.
Art & Culture Art Education

AEF Mini Grant

Appleton Education Foundation Inc
Private
Outagamie County, Wisconsin
Up to US $500

Appleton Education Foundation

The Appleton Education Foundation, a supporting organization of the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region, has been working since 1997 to develop a steady source of support for grants now, and for many future generations of Appleton children.

Mission: We raise and direct private funds to strengthen and enhance education in our community.

AEF Grants

AEF favors grant projects that:

  • Demonstrate educational innovation
  • Promote original, creative ideas
  • Focus on content enrichment and skills development
  • Are not supported through normal school budgets
  • Have measurable indicators of success
  • Address one or more academic standards set by AASD

General Guidelines & Restrictions

  • AEF typically provides seed money for creative projects and should not be considered a resource for ongoing funding.
  • Murals: AEF gives funding priority to Artists in Residence programs over standalone mural projects.
  • AEF places low-priority on funding: computer software, classroom sets of books, furniture, and food.
  • Any proposed software must go through AASD’s software approval process before the grant is submitted.
  • Grantees should carefully track expenses and save receipts for use of grant funds. Any unused grant funding ($20 or more) should be returned to the AEF.
  • Grant recipients will be required to submit a final report to help the AEF ensure effective grant making and data collection.
  • Submitting a final report is necessary to remain eligible for future grants.

AEF Mini Grant

Description

  • Shorter version of traditional AEF grant application.
  • Proposals will be accepted for projects that creatively enhance the education and instruction of students in any academic discipline.
  • Grant money may not be used for operating expenses, such as for payment of substitute teachers or travel.
Education Academic Success & Enrichment

PLTW Computer Science - New Program (Burns and McDonnell)

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
Adams County, Colorado, Alamance County, North Carolina +300 more
US $20,000
The PLTW Computer Science program, supported by Burns and McDonnell, aims to enhance STEM education in various communities by funding schools to implement PLTW courses. This partnership promotes student engagement with real-world challenges, preparing them for future careers in technology. With a total grant of $20,000, schools must offer multiple PLTW courses over two years, ensuring access to quality education for underserved populations.
Computer Science & Engineering STEM / STEAM Education

CCF Medical School Scholarship

Columbus Citizens Foundation Inc
Private
United States
US $5,000 - US $6,250

About Us

Columbus Citizens Foundation celebrates Italian heritage and culture through a broad range of philanthropic and educational activities. The Foundation’s Scholarship program has supported thousands of deserving Italian American students, offering them a chance to fulfill their academic dreams and excel in their endeavors. Since 1929, the Foundation’s most public activity is organizing New York City’s annual Columbus Day Parade, the largest celebration of Italian-American heritage and achievement in the world. CCF offers many programs throughout the year celebrating Italian language, culture, history, and the many connections between Italy and the United States that extend across several centuries and continue to the present day.

CCF Medical School Scholarship

Since 2017, Columbus Citizens Foundation has been awarding scholarships to promising medical school students of Italian heritage. The scholarship that launched CCF’s medical school offerings in 2017 is primarily funded by, and candidates selected in partnership with, the Morgagni Medical Society, an organization founded in 1890 in order to foster the professional, intellectual, and economic development of Italian American physicians.

In 2021, CCF launched the Dr. Anthony S. Fauci Medical School Scholarship, to be awarded annually to Italian American students who exemplify the values and determination of Dr. Fauci. The scholarship supports students with great academic prowess seeking financial aid at the graduate level in medical and public health fields of study.

Health & Medicine Academic Scholarship Programs

PLTW Computer Science - Program Expansion (Burns and McDonnell)

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
Adams County, Colorado, Alamance County, North Carolina +300 more
US $10,000
Burns and McDonnell, a 100% employee-owned firm, partners with Project Lead The Way (PLTW) to enhance access to STEM education. By expanding PLTW Computer Science programs in local schools, they aim to engage students in real-world challenges and equip them with essential skills. Eligible schools must be located in specific counties and serve a majority of students from low-income backgrounds. This initiative supports the growth of STEM education, fostering a brighter future for communities through enhanced learning opportunities.
Computer Science & Engineering STEM / STEAM Education

MACF: Other Grants- Town Grants

Midland Area Community Foundation
Private
Midland County, Michigan
Up to US $5,000
The MACF Town Grants program offers up to $5,000 in matching funds for public improvement projects across Midland County. Established to enhance community collaboration and philanthropy, this initiative supports nonprofit agencies, public schools, and government entities. Through this program, MACF aims to foster vibrant community development by empowering local organizations to implement impactful projects that benefit residents and enhance quality of life.
Urban Planning Community Development & Revitalization

Mentored Patient-Oriented Research Career Development Award (Parent K23 Independent Clinical Trial Not Allowed) (353461)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Unspecified amount
The NIH Mentored Patient-Oriented Research Career Development Award (K23) aims to enhance the career development of clinical doctoral degree holders dedicated to patient-oriented research. It supports individuals in their commitment to focus their research efforts on improving patient outcomes. The award has multiple application deadlines, including June 12, 2024, and October 12, 2024, among others, catering to various grant types, including standard, renewal, and AIDS-related applications.
Medical Education & Professional Training Health & Medicine

U.S. Venture Program Grants

Us Venture Schmidt Family Foundation Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The U.S. Venture/Schmidt Family Foundation supports initiatives that drive self-sufficiency and community enrichment for vulnerable populations. With over $4.31 million awarded last year, the foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate measurable impact and foster stronger communities. Eligible organizations include those designated as public charities by the IRS. The foundation emphasizes collaboration with other funders, avoiding sole financial support to ensure comprehensive community development.
Community Development & Revitalization Nonprofit Growth & Development Basic Human Needs

Grants for Arts Projects (GAP)

National Endowment for the Arts (NEA)
Federal Government
United States
US $10,000 - US $100,000
The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) offers Grants for Arts Projects (GAP) to support diverse arts initiatives that enhance public engagement and education. These grants aim to improve community well-being through the arts and are open to all organizations, regardless of size or location. Applicants are encouraged to align their projects with NEA funding priorities, fostering creativity across various disciplines such as music, theater, and visual arts.
Art & Culture Art Education

George H. Henry Award

Delaware Community Foundation
Private
Delaware
US $500

George H. Henry Award

Award:

  • One-time award of $500 awarded in each of the Capital and Cape Henlopen School Districts. 
Education Education - Higher Education

Barnard Companies Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Gallatin County, Montana
Unspecified amount
The Barnard Companies Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, provides financial support to undergraduate students pursuing degrees in Civil Engineering. With varying award amounts, this scholarship aims to recognize and assist students with strong academic records and potential for success. It highlights the university's commitment to making quality education accessible and encourages aspiring engineers to advance their studies in a supportive environment.
Civil Engineering Academic Scholarship Programs

St Joseph School District Foundation Wright, Gary C Scholarship

Community Foundation Of Northwest Missouri
Private
United States
US $250 - US $500

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. Individuals and organizations are encouraged to establish a fund with us. 

St Joseph School District Foundation Wright, Gary C Scholarship

This fund was established in memory of Gary C Wright by his family to provide academic scholarships to graduating seniors of the St. Joseph School District intending to major in education with preference given to those in math and/or science.

Guidelines:

  • Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis and disbursed in August.
  • Awards are non-renewable.

Amount:

  • $250 - $500
Education - Higher Education Mathematics Science

Honor Medal Award

Maine Education Association
Private
Maine
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Honor Medal Award, presented by the Maine Education Association, recognizes an MEA member who has exemplified courage in defending academic freedom and upholding the rights of educators. This award acknowledges those who risk their personal welfare for professional integrity, demonstrating a commitment to equity and educational excellence. The MEA, representing a diverse body of educators, aims to honor members who advocate for improved conditions and support for their colleagues and students across Maine.
Civil Rights Education

Isabel and Arthur Watres Student Research Award

Lacawac Sanctuary
Private
Wayne County, Pennsylvania
Up to US $500
The Isabel and Arthur Watres Student Research Award, offered by Lacawac Sanctuary, provides financial support for undergraduate research focused on the natural resources of the Sanctuary. Awards range from $250 to $500, prioritizing costs related to residence and research user fees. Open to undergraduate students at any stage, this fund encourages new projects and collaboration with faculty. Recipients may need to present their findings and acknowledge the fund in publications, fostering a connection between research and conservation.
Ecology Biology

Portland Arts & Culture: General Operating Support

City of Portland Office of Arts & Culture
State/Local Government
Multnomah County, Oregon
US $25,000 - US $290,000
The Portland Arts & Culture General Operating Support program provides essential funding for local arts organizations that enhance the cultural ecosystem of the city. With a focus on accessibility, these grants support a wide range of activities including community events and arts education. Eligible organizations must be based in Portland, hold IRS 501(c)(3) status, and demonstrate a commitment to serving diverse communities. Over 1.5 million attendees benefit from these programs annually, bolstering the local economy.
Art & Culture Art Education

Betsy Palmer Graduate Student Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Gallatin County, Montana
Unspecified amount
The Betsy Palmer Graduate Student Scholarship at Montana State University supports graduate students pursuing degrees in Education, Health, and Human Development. This scholarship offers varying award amounts based on merit and is part of a robust financial assistance program that aims to recognize and reward academic excellence. Montana State University is committed to providing opportunities for students who demonstrate outstanding promise for success in their academic endeavors.
Education Academic Scholarship Programs

IMPACT: Quality of Place: Community Assets - Arts, Culture, & Heritage Grants

Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority
State/Local Government
Erie County, Pennsylvania
Up to US $15,000
The IMPACT: Quality of Place Grant Program aims to enhance community well-being, foster civic pride, and stimulate tourism through support for arts, culture, and heritage initiatives in Erie County. With a funding cap of $15,000 per application and a total of $200,000 available each grant cycle, the program encourages projects that enrich community life and support economic development. Eligible applicants include local non-profits and municipalities that meet specific criteria.
Art & Culture Community Culture & Heritage

Earl B. and Loraine H Miller Foundation Grants

Earl B And Loraine H Miller Foundation
Private
Los Angeles County, California
Approximately US $10,000
The Earl B. and Loraine H. Miller Foundation Grants support nonprofits in the Health, Education, and Arts sectors, particularly those addressing community needs in Long Beach. Grantees can apply for one-year funding for program support or core operating expenses. With an emphasis on sustainability, collaboration, and measurable impact, the foundation aims to empower organizations to enhance children's health and well-being while adapting to post-pandemic challenges.
Art & Culture Education Health & Medicine +1 more

Somatic Mosaicism across Human Tissues (SMaHT) Program: Genome Characterization Centers (UM1 Clinical Trial Not Allowed) (363858)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Unspecified amount
The Somatic Mosaicism across Human Tissues (SMaHT) Program aims to uncover biological processes and disease mechanisms influenced by somatic mutations. Since its inception in 2023, it has produced valuable multi-omic datasets from diverse human tissues. The upcoming Stage 2 Genome Characterization Centers will focus on understanding the impact of these mutations in both healthy and clinically significant samples, enhancing our knowledge of somatic mosaicism's role in human health and disease.
Biology Genetics & Genomics

Closed Charter School Records Custodian

Texas Education Agency
State/Local Government
Texas
US $550,000

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency is the state agency that oversees primary and secondary public education. It is headed by the commissioner of education. The Texas Education Agency improves outcomes for all public school students in the state by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems.

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) administers federal and state grant awards to its subgrantees to carry out a program. Such entities include primarily school systems (referred to as local educational agencies [LEAs] in statutes), including independent school districts and charter schools; education service centers (ESCs); and, to a lesser degree, institutions of higher education (IHEs), nonprofit organizations (NPOs), and other statutorily allowable organizations.

Closed Charter School Records Custodian

Program Description

The purpose of this project is to fulfill the mandate of Texas Education Code (TEC), §12.1052(d), which is that the commissioner of education shall ensure that the records of an open-enrollment charter school that ceases to operate shall be transferred in the manner specified by the commissioner to a custodian designated by the commissioner. The commissioner may designate any appropriate entity to serve as custodian, including the agency, a regional education service center, or a school district. In designating a custodian, the commissioner shall ensure that the transferred records, including student and personnel records, are transferred to a custodian capable of:

  •  maintaining the records;
  • making the records readily accessible to students, parents, former school employees, and other persons entitled to access; and
  • complying with applicable state or federal law restricting access to the records.

Education Historical Records & Archives

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.