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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

Minnie M. Jones Trust Grant

Tr Uw Minnie M Jones
Private
Texas
Unspecified amount
The Minnie M. Jones Trust Grant, established in 1953, aims to enhance educational opportunities for underserved children in Texas. This private trust focuses on supporting organizations that provide quality education programming, with a preference for those serving youth in Denison and Grayson County. Grants are awarded for a duration of one year, emphasizing the importance of sustainable educational initiatives.
Education Youth Services

Gateway Fund Grant

The Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation
Private
Berkshire County, Massachusetts
US $1,000 - US $5,000
The Gateway Fund Grant aims to enhance the educational experiences of students and teachers in the North Adams Public Schools. This endowed fund supports diverse projects, including independent studies, extracurricular activities, and professional development for educators. Community proposals are encouraged to ensure educational excellence, with a focus on volunteer efforts and additional support. Review criteria include project worthiness, potential impact on the community, and the applicant's ability to complete the project.
Education Education - K through 12

Lenox Education Enrichment Foundation

The Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation
Private
Berkshire County, Massachusetts
US $100 - US $1,000
The Lenox Education Enrichment Foundation (LEEF) aims to enhance the educational experience for students and teachers in Lenox Public Schools. They invite grant proposals from the community for projects that can improve educational outcomes, such as independent studies, extracurricular programs, and professional development. Grants range from $100 to $1,000, with a focus on projects that demonstrate volunteer support and collaboration. However, no project can receive funding for more than three years.
Education Education - K through 12

Elaine R. “Boots” Fisher Award

Foundation Of The Federal Bar Association
Private
United States
US $1,000

Foundation of the Federal Bar Association

The Foundation of the Federal Bar Association provides the best way for practitioners to give back to the Federal legal community. Chartered by Congress in 1954, the Foundation serves people in communities across the United States through its generous grants, scholarships, and programming.

Our Mission: The Foundation’s mission is to:

  • Promote and support legal research and education;
  • Advance the science of jurisprudence;
  • Facilitate the administration of justice;
  • Foster improvements in the practice of Federal law

Elaine R. “Boots” Fisher Award

Elaine R. “Boots” Fisher was the wife of former National and Northern District of Ohio Chapter President Stanley M. Fisher. Sadly, in 1989 “Boots” Fisher succumbed to illness. The Elaine R. “Boots” Fisher Award is presented as a memorial to the outstanding and unselfish contributions made by “Boots” Fisher to improve the quality of life and opportunities of all persons. She gave of herself willingly to help others to overcome adversity.

The award is intended to stimulate, encourage and recognize exemplary community, public and charitable service by members of the Federal Bar Association. Nominations should demonstrate:

  • Continuous general or specific contributions to community, charitable or public service;
  • Specific accomplishments for which the nominee is primarily responsible which serve to enhance, promote and encourage community, charitable and/or public service; and
  • Specific personal achievements of the nominee which serve to provide inspiration and hope to others. The charitable contribution made in the name of the recipient reflects the essence of the person in whose honor this award is established.

The charitable contribution made in the name of the recipient reflects the essence of the person in whose honor this award is established. A cash contribution in the amount of $1,000 will be made in the recipient’s name to a charity selected by the recipient. The charity selected must meet the requirements of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and contributions to charitable organizations which promote the provision of legal services and the administration of justice are encouraged but not required.

Legal Services Law Community Services

FC Cincinnati Foundation West End Grants

Fc Cincinnati Foundation
Private
Hamilton County, Ohio
Up to US $10,000

FC Cincinnati Foundation

FC Cincinnati is committed to leaving a legacy, creating something bigger than ourselves, and being the embodiment of a rising Cincinnati. Through our own programs and initiatives, and the support of key partners, we aim to improve the lives of children through the game of soccer and will continue to do our part to create an inclusive community.

FC Cincinnati Foundation’s mission is accomplished primarily through five key programs: Club Ambassadorship through In-School and Out-of-School Programming, Mini Pitch Soccer Builds, West End Pride and Learning Is Cool. These programs help promote and encourage strong academic performance, and serve as catalysts to reinforce character values and improved health for children in the Greater Cincinnati region. The Foundation also serves as FC Cincinnati’s philanthropic arm, making donations and investments to Cincinnati-area organizations that have similar goals and ambitions for the area’s youth.

West End Grants

FC Cincinnati Foundation is proud to support the West End with our Grants Program which supports community-building initiatives within the West End neighborhood. A minimum of $100,000 in grants will be invested in the West End on an annual basis through this grants program.

To qualify for a grant, the applicant’s initiative must support community-building initiatives within the West End neighborhood. Applicants should also be a 501(c)3 organization in good standing.

Organizations are encouraged to seek endorsement for their application from the West End Community Council. While this is not required, it is helpful for us to understand the priorities of neighborhood leadership as we make grant determinations.

Community Development & Revitalization Youth Services

Ichiro & Masako Hirata Scholarship

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Ichiro & Masako Hirata Scholarship, established in 2005 by Masako Hirata, supports Hawaii residents majoring in Education. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, and be full-time students in their junior, senior, or graduate years. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility requirements. This scholarship aims to foster academic achievement and good moral character among its beneficiaries.
Education Teacher Development & Training

Lanesborough Initiative For Excellence Fund Grant

The Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation
Private
Berkshire County, Massachusetts
Up to US $1,000
The Lanesborough Initiative For Excellence (LIFE) Grant aims to enhance the educational experience of students and teachers in the Lanesborough School District by funding innovative projects. Eligible applicants include students, teachers, and community members proposing initiatives that foster educational growth. Grants focus on direct project costs, excluding salaries, and preference is given to proposals demonstrating volunteer involvement and additional support. This initiative encourages creativity and resourcefulness in educational settings.
Education Education - K through 12

Public Health Preparedness Program

State of New Jersey Department of Health
State/Local Government
New Jersey
Up to US $150,000
The Public Health Preparedness Program, led by the New Jersey Department of Health, is a critical initiative aimed at enhancing the state's public health response capabilities. Funded by the CDC, this program focuses on strengthening all-hazards preparedness, fostering community resilience, and ensuring effective emergency response. By collaborating with healthcare coalitions and local health departments, it aims to improve the public health system's readiness and capacity to prevent illness and save lives during emergencies.
Community / Public Safety Disaster Preparedness

Charles Nelson Robinson Fund Grant

Charles Nelson Robinson Fund
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
Unspecified amount
The Charles Nelson Robinson Fund Grant, established in 1970, aims to enhance educational, human services, and healthcare programs for underserved populations in Hartford, Connecticut. This grant supports initiatives that align with its mission, with a duration of one year. Organizations applying must have their principal office in Hartford and will receive notification of decisions within 2-3 months. Notably, capital project requests are not eligible for funding.
Education Human & Social Services Health & Medicine

Clara Blackford Smith & W. Aubrey Smith Charitable Foundation Grant

Clara Blackford Smith & W. Aubrey Smith Charitable Foundation
Private
Texas
Unspecified amount
The Clara Blackford Smith & W. Aubrey Smith Charitable Foundation, established in 1978, aims to enhance quality education, health care, and human services for underserved populations in Grayson County, Texas. With a commitment to supporting charitable organizations that align with these goals, the foundation continues Mrs. Smith's legacy as a benefactor of health care. Special considerations are made for initiatives directly benefiting the local community.
Education Health & Medicine Human & Social Services

Mechanical and Aerospace Merit Scholarship

Western Michigan University
Private
Kalamazoo County, Michigan
US $1,000
The Mechanical and Aerospace Merit Scholarship offers $1000 per semester to attract and retain high-achieving students in mechanical and aerospace engineering. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in the respective programs, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, and commit to research projects with faculty. An additional $1000 is available for those in the accelerated MS degree program, awarded after project completion. This initiative fosters academic excellence and research engagement within the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences.
Mechanical Engineering Academic Scholarship Programs

Lewis M. Yost Scholarship

Western Michigan University
Private
Kalamazoo County, Michigan
Up to US $500
The Lewis M. Yost Scholarship, offered by Western Michigan University, provides financial support to undergraduate mechanical engineering students for competitive projects. Awarded twice a year, this scholarship grants up to $500 to individual students for project-related expenses. To apply, students must be majoring in mechanical engineering and designate a competitive project. Re-applications are allowed each semester, contingent on eligibility and available funds.
Mechanical Engineering Academic Scholarship Programs

VCA Charities: Disaster Relief Grants

Vca Charities
Private
United States
Up to US $10,000
VCA Charities is dedicated to enhancing pet ownership by offering Disaster Relief Grants to support animal welfare organizations impacted by natural disasters. These grants provide funding for essential veterinary care, pet supplies, temporary shelter, and transportation costs for rescued animals. Prioritizing immediate relief, VCA Charities also assesses preparedness requests at year-end. The program aims to alleviate the suffering of pets and ensure they remain in loving homes during crises, addressing both urgent and long-term needs in affected communities.
Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid Animal Welfare - General

New York Foundation Core Grants

New York Foundation
Private
Bronx County, New York, Kings County, New York +3 more
Up to US $237,500
The New York Foundation Core Grants support community organizing, grassroots advocacy, and movement-building efforts in New York City. Grants of $47,500 per year are available for up to three years for established groups and five years for emerging ones. In addition to funding, grantees gain access to capacity-building resources, including legal services, workshops, and small responsive grants. The foundation prioritizes organizations led by marginalized communities and those addressing systemic injustices.
Social Justice / Human Rights Civil Rights

Garrison Family Foundation Grants

Garrison Family Foundation
Private
Armstrong County, Texas, Briscoe County, Texas +25 more
Unspecified amount
The Garrison Family Foundation, established in 2006 by Shirley and Mildred Garrison, is dedicated to philanthropy in the Texas panhandle and South Plains. The Foundation supports 501(c)(3) charities in education, religion, and health, emphasizing the importance of giving and community. The Garrison's legacy promotes a culture of generosity, allowing future generations to learn the value of philanthropy while making a positive impact in their communities.
Education Health & Medicine Religion & Spirituality

Effective Advising Framework Planning Grant

Texas Education Agency
State/Local Government
Texas
Up to US $100,000

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. 

Effective Advising Framework Planning Grant

Program Description

The Effective Advising Framework (EAF) supports school systems in developing and implementing an individual student planning system as part of a comprehensive school counseling program. The EAF also promotes innovation in career and technical education, including the adoption and expansion of promising programs, particularly those aligned to high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand careers and industries.

The goal of this grant project is to provide interested school systems in each region with EAF coaching support and high-quality resources and tools to strengthen their advising systems and student outcomes. The project aims to identify, train, and designate EAF Coaches at the ESCs who will guide school systems through the EAF planning and implementation process. Finally, the project seeks to ensure that students graduate fully prepared for college, career, or military success, which in turn supports improved CCMR accountability ratings and increased outcome bonuses

Education Academic Success & Enrichment

Stinson Foundation Grant

Stinson Foundation
Private
Andrews County, Texas, Crane County, Texas +9 more
US $2,000 - US $10,000
The Stinson Foundation Grant supports charitable organizations focused on children, families, arts, and education. Founded with a philosophy of optimism, the foundation offers grants ranging from $2,000 to $10,000, with an application deadline of May 15. Each year, approximately 10 awards are given to foster projects that embody the spirit of Sue Stinson's commitment to uplifting communities through creativity and support.
Art & Culture Education Human & Social Services

Robert Paul Dost Scholarship Endowment (Regional)

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.

Regional Scholarships

We believe that post-secondary education is key to healthy, resilient, and thriving communities and are pleased to partner with generous community donors to create and offer a variety of scholarship opportunities for local students across the region.

Robert Paul Dost Scholarship Endowment (Regional)

Available to graduating high school seniors in Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska and Leelanau Counties who are planning to pursue electrical engineering. 

Education - Higher Education Electrical Engineering

Middendorf Foundation: Arts and Culture Grants

Middendorf Foundation Inc
Private
Baltimore City, Maryland, Baltimore County, Maryland
Unspecified amount

Middendorf Foundation Arts and Culture GrantsThe Middendorf Foundation was founded in 1953 by J. William Jr. and Alice Carter Middendorf to support institutions and projects in their areas of interest within the State of Maryland. Their focus included: education, healthcare, social services, the environment, historic preservation and arts & culture.The Foundation believes that arts and cultural institutions help define and create vibrant communities and foster sustainable economic development. We view investing in this sector as an integral component of supporting well-rounded, inclusive and dynamic community growth.The Foundation prioritizes one-time costs such as capital campaigns for building, equipment, and/or technology with the lifespan of 7+ years.

Use of Funds:

All grant funds must be used within one year of receiving the award.

Art & Culture Arts / Culture Access & Participation

Elmer Roe Deaver Foundation Grant

The Elmer R Deaver Foundation Idt
Private
Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Elmer Roe Deaver Foundation Grant, established in 1947 by Elmer Roe Deaver, supports organizations that aid Philadelphia residents in poverty relief. Managed by Wells Fargo Bank, the foundation awards grants annually to 501(c)(3) exempt organizations focused on community welfare. This ongoing commitment to alleviating poverty underscores the foundation's significant role in enhancing the lives of those in need within the Philadelphia area.
Poverty Alleviation & Services Human & Social Services

Leadership Education in Adolescent Health (LEAH) (363410)

US HHS: Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +7 more
US $400,000 - US $459,370
The Leadership Education in Adolescent Health (LEAH) Program, funded by the US HHS: Health Resources & Services Administration, aims to enhance the quality of care for adolescents and young adults. By establishing graduate training programs, LEAH prepares healthcare professionals to effectively address chronic disease prevention and improve access to team-based healthcare services for this population, ultimately fostering better health outcomes and empowering future leaders in adolescent health.
Health & Medicine Medical Education & Professional Training

Connecticut Sea Grant Arts Support Awards Program

Connecticut Sea Grant
State/Local Government
Connecticut
Up to US $1,000
The Connecticut Sea Grant Arts Support Awards Program offers up to $1000 to artists or groups whose work reflects the beauty and relevance of coastal and marine environments. Eligible participants include Connecticut residents or artists whose work connects to these themes, across all artistic disciplines. Funds can cover production costs, excluding self-compensation. Previous awardees must wait five years before reapplying, ensuring fresh talent and innovative projects continue to emerge.
Art & Culture Writing & Literature

Digital Instruction for Adult Education

Illinois Community College Board
State/Local Government
Illinois
Up to US $75,000
The Illinois Community College Board has initiated the Digital Instruction for Adult Education grant to enhance technology access and digital skills for adult learners. This initiative aims to support Title II Adult Education and IELCE programs in upgrading their technology infrastructure, ensuring effective integration of technology in classrooms, and improving distance learning options. By fostering innovation through AI and increasing access to educational resources, the grant will empower individuals with foundational skills to transition into postsecondary education and the workforce.
Adult Education Technology Access & Digital Literacy

Mid-scale Research Infrastructure-1 (356129)

National Science Foundation (NSF)
Federal Government
United States
US $4,000,000 - US $19,999,999
The NSF Mid-scale Research Infrastructure-1 Program supports projects that enhance research capabilities in science and engineering. This program provides funding for both design and implementation of mid-scale research infrastructure, emphasizing the development of a diverse workforce. By addressing specific community needs and promoting competitive research environments, the program encourages innovative approaches to infrastructure development. Proposals may involve upgrades, new acquisitions, or design efforts aimed at successful implementation of vital research tools.
Engineering Science STEM / STEAM Education

Texas Instructional Leadership (TIL) Program Tracker

Texas Education Agency
State/Local Government
Texas
Up to US $33,000

Texas Instructional Leadership (TIL) Program Tracker

The grant provides a consistent online program for all ESCs to use for recording action steps and coaching of LEAs and seeks to gain program management and Drupal development assistance to provide continued support.  

Education Teacher Development & Training

Competitive Donor-Advised Funds - Altorfer Inc. Grant

Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation
Private
Linn County, Iowa
Approximately US $2,400

Purpose:

The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation accepts grant applications for a number of local corporations and family funds. Funding priorities are determined by each donor-advisor and may include program or project support, capital campaigns, and/or event sponsorships.

Competitive Donor-Advised Funds are not related to the Program Support or Organization Support grant programs. Therefore, applications to Competitive Donor-Advised Funds are not subject to the application limits for those two grant programs.  

Altorfer Inc. Grant

Priorities

  • Historic preservation,
  • community development
Community Development & Revitalization Historic Preservation

J. Waldo Smith Hydraulic Fellowship

American Society Of Civil Engineers Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The J. Waldo Smith Hydraulic Fellowship, established by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) in 1938, supports graduate students pursuing experimental hydraulics research. With a focus on practical experiments to advance knowledge in hydraulic flow, this fellowship is awarded to up to two deserving members annually, aiding in tuition and living expenses. Preference is given to Associate Members, fostering the education of future leaders in civil engineering.
Civil Engineering Education - Higher Education

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.