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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

MSAC Creativity Grants for Projects

Maryland State Arts Council
State/Local Government
Maryland
US $1,000 - US $4,000
The MSAC Creativity Grants for Projects, offered by the Maryland State Arts Council, aim to enhance the sustainability of artists and small organizations. This program supports specific arts projects that engage the community and foster creative expression. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with monthly reviews from July 2025 to March 2026. Eligible independent artists and organizations can receive funding for diverse arts initiatives, contributing to a vibrant cultural landscape in Maryland.
Art & Culture Public / Community Art

SP Supports 2: Effective Program Model Implementation

Texas Education Agency
State/Local Government
Texas
US $500,000

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. 

SP Supports 2: Effective Program Model Implementation

Program Description

The purpose of this project is to provide school systems with supplemental supports that include professional development and technical assistance on TEA-developed program implementation resources and researched based guidance.

Education Academic Success & Enrichment

Influence 100 Grant Program

Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
State/Local Government
Massachusetts
US $1,000
The Influence 100 Grant Program, managed by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, provides stipends to district staff participating as fellows. With approximately $33,000 available, districts involved in DESE's Influence 100 initiative can apply for $1,000 per fellow. Compliance with the Massachusetts General Laws, including the MBTA Communities Act, is essential for grant receipt. This program aims to enhance diversity and strengthen the educational workforce in the state.
Community Development & Revitalization Civic Leadership Development

ROSES25: D.8 Habitable Worlds Observatory Precursor Science Investigation

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Unspecified amount
The Habitable Worlds Observatory (HWO) is a pioneering space mission concept aimed at discovering life beyond our solar system, as highlighted in the Astro2020 survey. The HWO-PSI program seeks to reduce risks for future missions by advancing scientific investigations that inform mission design. As HWO enters its pre-formulation phase, it addresses significant astrophysical questions and technical challenges, ultimately striving for groundbreaking discoveries in our understanding of the universe.
Astronomy & Astrophysics Space Science

Dennis & Patricia Early Scholarship (STEM)

The Community Foundation Of Harrisonburg And Rockingham County
Private
Virginia
Unspecified amount

The Community Foundation of Harrisonburg & Rockingham County

At The Community Foundation of Harrisonburg & Rockingham County, we make it easy to give back to the community we all love through comprehensive and trusted charitable giving. We partner with donors, professional advisors and nonprofits to fund local needs through community endowments and support to charities. By expertly managing these funds in-house or with local financial advisors, we’re able to power the arts, faith-based initiatives, environmental grants, human services, domestic and wildlife animal organizations and educational initiatives that help to strengthen our community and make it a vibrant place to live and work. 

Dennis & Patricia Early Scholarship (STEM)

Dennis and Patricia Early have dedicated their lives to education and to encouraging and supporting students in every way. They taught multiple generations of the same families in Rockingham County. Patricia taught biology and chemistry and Dennis taught math.

This scholarship supports graduates of Rockingham County public high schools interested in studying math or science, or in becoming a K-12 math or science teacher. Candidates may pursue other career paths related to math and science. 

This scholarship is renewable.

Education - Higher Education Mathematics Science

NE-AIPG Angelo Tagliacozzo Memorial Geological Scholarship (ATMGS)

American Institute of Professional Geologists (AIPG)
Association/Society
Connecticut, Maine +6 more
US $1,000 - US $3,500
The NE-AIPG Angelo Tagliacozzo Memorial Geological Scholarship (ATMGS) supports junior and senior undergraduate geology students in the NE Section, honoring Angelo Tagliacozzo's legacy. Established in 1986, the scholarship aims to encourage young geologists to pursue careers in geological sciences. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in accredited programs, on track for required credit hours, and can only receive the scholarship once. This initiative fosters early engagement with AIPG, emphasizing professional affiliation and support for the next generation of geologists.
Geography Academic Scholarship Programs

2026-2028 State Facilities Incentive Technical Assistance Grant

Texas Education Agency
State/Local Government
Texas
Up to US $747,150

Texas Education Agency (TEA)

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.

2026-2028 State Facilities Incentive Technical Assistance Grant

The purpose of the State Facilities Incentive Technical Assistance Grant is to provide high-quality facilities support to Texas charter schools and support State Facilities Incentive Grant (SFIG) grantees. The grant activities include providing technical assistance for charter school leaders on smart decision-making related to facilities and growth. This support aims to increase expertise in facilities planning, financing and operations. Grant activities also include supporting SFIG grantees through monitoring and evaluation to ensure awarded SFIG funds are appropriately stewarded. 

Facilities Training Program

Support under this section of the grant will provide tools and share best practices for smart facility growth. Topics may include state school funding policy, facility budgeting, financing options, compliance, and navigating legal requirements for construction. This support will include a training plan, curriculum, materials, and online modules.

Differentiated Technical Assistance

Support under this section of the grant will provide targeted and support or advice related to facilities funding decisions and planning. Support will be individualized to each subgrantee based on a needs assessment and may include individualized advice and plan development related to topics like facility budgeting, financing options, compliance, and navigating legal requirements for construction.

Subgrantee Monitoring

Support under this section of the grant will provide effective monitoring and evaluation of SFIG grantees. This support will include evaluation against SFIG grant requirements and ensure awarded SFIG funds are appropriately stewarded. 

Education Education System Policy & Reform

Massachusetts Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)

Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities
State/Local Government
Massachusetts
Up to US $13,500,000

Massachusetts Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)

The Massachusetts Community Development Block Grant Program is a federally funded, competitive grant program designed to help cities and towns meet a broad range of community development needs.

There are two primary Massachusetts CDBG funding programs, the Community Development Fund (CDF) and the Mini-Entitlement Program (ME) Program. The Community Development Fund (CDF) is a competitive program and awards grants to eligible communities throughout the Commonwealth, helping cities and towns meet a broad range of community development needs in housing, infrastructure, revitalization, economic development and public social services. Municipalities selected for the Mini-Entitlement Program (ME) Program are determined by using a formula calculation based on high statistical indicators of need, poverty rate and population size. Each program has specific eligibility requirements and application procedures, which are described in more detail below.

Please note, the maximum award amounts have increased by $100,000 in each category since the proposed changes to the One Year Plan session: now a single municipality may receive an award up to $950,000; two municipalities (regional) may receive an award up to $1,150,000 and three municipalities (regional) may receive an award up to $1,350,000.  

Economic Services & Development Community Development & Revitalization

Glens Falls Foundation Grant

Glens Falls Foundation
Private
Saratoga County, New York, Warren County, New York +1 more
Unspecified amount
The Glens Falls Foundation Grant, established in 1939, aims to enhance the quality of life in the Greater Glens Falls area by funding non-profit organizations that meet community needs. Grants support capital projects, equipment, and special initiatives, with a focus on projects demonstrating viability, sustainability, and community impact. The Foundation prioritizes applicants with a clear financial need and encourages innovative projects while discouraging funding for general operating expenses.
Human & Social Services Art & Culture Education

The Sherwood Foundation: Program Grants

The Sherwood Foundation
Private
Nebraska
Unspecified amount
The Sherwood Foundation offers program and capital grants aimed at promoting equity through social justice initiatives in Nebraska. Supporting 501(c)(3) organizations, government entities, schools, and churches, the foundation focuses on urban community partnerships, rural community partnerships, and early childhood education. The foundation values civil liberties and equality, encouraging applicants to align with its mission. First-time applicants are advised to contact the foundation for guidance on suitable grants and application processes.
Education Human & Social Services Social Justice / Human Rights

ESC Perkins Statewide Initiative Grant

Texas Education Agency
State/Local Government
Texas
US $100,000
The ESC Perkins Statewide Initiative Grant, administered by the Texas Education Agency, aims to enhance the capacity of Education Service Centers (ESCs) through approved training on federal grant compliance. This initiative will support ESC staff in conducting comprehensive local needs assessments and implementing technical assistance for local educational agencies (LEAs) in various regulatory areas. The program is set to play a key role in the planning of a joint program conference in Fall 2026, with potential for continued funding in subsequent years.
Education Teacher Development & Training

2026-2029 Local Accountability Plan Technical Assistance Grant

Texas Education Agency
State/Local Government
Texas
US $1,600,000

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. 

Local Accountability Plan Technical Assistance Grant

Program Description

The scope of the work will include providing technical assistance for school systems as they develop their Local Accountability System plan.

Education Academic Success & Enrichment

DSF Charitable Foundation: Health Grants

DSF Charitable Foundation
Private
Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, Armstrong County, Pennsylvania +8 more
Unspecified amount
The DSF Charitable Foundation offers health grants to support projects in southwestern Pennsylvania. Grant requests are reviewed three times a year, with initial inquiries recommended to be sent via email by the organization's executive director. The Foundation does not fund individuals or endowments and requires proof of tax-exempt status. Organizations must provide detailed project descriptions along with financial information for consideration, ensuring clarity on the funding purpose.
Education Health & Medicine Human & Social Services

Curtis G. Hames Research Award

Society of Teachers of Family Medicine (STFM)
Association/Society
Kansas
Unspecified amount

Society of Teachers of Family Medicine (STFM) 

Founded in 1967, the Society of Teachers of Family Medicine (STFM) is a national community of academic leaders committed to developing an accomplished family medicine workforce, prepared to serve as the foundation of America’s health care system. Our members include physicians, PAs, nurse practitioners, behavioral health specialists, researchers, pharmacists, nurses and other health care professionals, health system executives, administrators, coordinators, fellows, residents, students, and others involved in the education of family physicians. 

Curtis G. Hames Research Award

The Curtis G. Hames Research Award honors those individuals whose careers over the years exemplify dedication to research in family medicine. The award recipient is selected by a committee representing STFM, the Association of Departments of Family Medicine, and the North American Primary Care Research Group. This award is supported by the Department of Family Medicine through the MCG Foundation's Hames Endowment of the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University.  

Health & Medicine Family Services

CDBG Downtown Revitalization

Nebraska Department of Economic Development
State/Local Government
Nebraska
US $250,000 - US $435,000

Nebraska Department of Economic Development

Since 1967, the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) has been focused on growing and diversifying the state’s economic base, bringing new dollars, new businesses, and new people into the state. DED's mission is to provide quality leadership and services that enable Nebraska’s communities, businesses, and people to succeed in a global economy. We are here, equipped and ready, to assist you and your community in developing and capitalizing on economic development opportunities.

Community Development Block Grant

The federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program provides funding for community and economic development projects in order to encourage additional federal, state and private resource investment. Communities receiving CDBG funds use the grants to provide safe and sanitary housing, a suitable living environment and expanded economic opportunities. The Nebraska DED administers the CDBG program for most of the state. Due to population size, some cities in Nebraska are the administrators of the CDBG program in their communities. DED receives federal funds for CDBG from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) on an annual basis.

CDBG Downtown Revitalization

CDBG funds can be utilized for downtown revitalization projects. The purpose of the Downtown Revitalization (DTR) Opportunity is to leverage investments that will contribute to the revitalization or redevelopment of downtown infrastructure and develop a greater capacity for growth, addressing health and safety concerns and commercial revitalization within the traditional business centers of our Nebraska communities. This provides a sound basis for fostering local economic development through public and private sector partnerships. This recognizes the importance of the condition and viability of a downtown to increase the community’s tax base and cultivates a tangible center for community activity. These projects directly relate to business retention, expansion, and location decisions, recognizing that downtowns reflect the economic core and persona of our communities.

Community Development & Revitalization Economic Services & Development

Elmo M. Royce Youth Fund Grant

Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc.
Private
Schuyler County, New York
US $100 - US $2,000
The Elmo M. Royce Youth Fund Grant supports non-profit organizations in Schuyler County, NY, that provide youth activities and recreational programs. It also offers camp scholarships, known as Camperships, to financially needy youth. This grant aims to enhance the quality of life for local youth through diverse programs, including organized summer activities and camps. Managed by the Community Foundation, this initiative ensures that essential resources are available to foster youth development in the community.
Youth Services Recreation

NRC Research Associateship Grant Program

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine
Private
United States
US $30,000 - US $80,000
The NRC Research Associateship Grant Program, managed by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, provides prestigious research opportunities for postdoctoral and senior scientists at federal laboratories. This program promotes scientific excellence through mentorship and access to advanced facilities. Eligible candidates must hold a relevant doctorate and demonstrate significant research potential. With annual deadlines on February 1, May 1, August 1, and November 1, this initiative aims to enhance the career development of promising researchers.
Engineering Science Computer Science & Engineering +1 more

CFMC Women Educators Endowed Fund

Community Foundation of Monroe County
Private
Michigan
Unspecified amount

About Us

Making a Difference, Together

The Community Foundation of Monroe County (CFMC) builds a thriving, inclusive community through the power of philanthropy. By connecting generous donors with local causes, we help ensure Monroe County remains a place where everyone can thrive. Since our founding, we’ve been a trusted steward of community resources, fostering impactful collaborations and sustainable solutions to address challenges in education, health, poverty, and community development.

Women Educators Endowed Fund

The Women Educators Scholarship Fund supports applicants pursuing a degree in the field of education with a completion of at least 48 undergraduate credit hours at an accredited Michigan college of education or an institution with a reciprocal agreement.

Education Education - Higher Education

Network of the National Library of Medicine Coordinating Center (U24 Clinical Trial Optional)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
United States
Up to US $1,500,000
The National Library of Medicine (NLM) is inviting applications for its Coordinating Center within the Network of the National Library of Medicine (NNLM). Established in 1965, the NNLM enhances public access to health information through collaboration with libraries and community organizations. The NCC will oversee network administration and evaluation, fostering partnerships and supporting local clinical research. This initiative aims to expand NIH engagement and improve public understanding of health resources and information available through the NNLM.
Health & Medicine Library & Information Science Library Services

Network of the National Library of Medicine Training Center (U24 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $750,000
The National Library of Medicine (NLM) is seeking applications for a Training Center under the Network of the National Library of Medicine (NNLM). This initiative aims to enhance professional development for librarians, community engagement, and access to health information. By fostering partnerships and disseminating NIH resources, the NNLM will broaden its impact and improve public understanding of health data and information. The NTC will develop innovative training curricula and materials to meet diverse audience needs.
Health & Medicine Library & Information Science Library Services

Polisseni Foundation Grant

Polisseni Foundation
Private
Albany County, New York, Clinton County, New York +23 more
Unspecified amount
The Polisseni Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in upstate New York by supporting organizations that address community needs in education, human services, and civic improvement. To apply, organizations must submit their IRS 501(c)(3) Determination Letter and ensure their applications are formatted correctly. All submissions must be made two weeks before the scheduled board meeting for consideration.
Education Human & Social Services Civic Affairs

Network of the National Library of Medicine Regional Medical Libraries (UG4 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
United States
Up to US $600,000
The National Library of Medicine (NLM) is seeking applications to establish Regional Medical Libraries within the Network of the National Library of Medicine (NNLM). Since 1965, the NNLM has enhanced public health information access through partnerships with libraries and health organizations. The initiative aims to improve community engagement, disseminate NIH research findings, and foster collaborations to promote health literacy and access to biomedical data, thereby supporting local clinical research efforts.
Health & Medicine Library & Information Science Library Services

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

Wyoming Arts Council: Professional Development/Career Advancement Grant

Wyoming Arts Council
State/Local Government
Wyoming
Up to US $1,000
The Wyoming Arts Council offers the Professional Development/Career Advancement Grant to enhance the capabilities of individuals and organizations engaged in the arts. This program supports diverse projects, including leadership training, strategic planning, and fundraising development. Eligible applicants include individual artists and 501(c)(3) organizations based in Wyoming. The grant aims to foster artistic excellence and community engagement, ensuring that the arts thrive in the state's economy and culture.
Artist Training & Development Art & Culture

The Medical Funds Grant

Seattle Foundation
Private
King County, Washington
Approximately US $40,000
The Medical Funds Grant, administered by the Seattle Foundation, aims to support medical research and address healthcare needs for low-income children. It prioritizes funding for specific equipment requests related to cancer, cardio-pulmonary diseases, and other significant health conditions. Additionally, it supports capital campaigns and facility renovations that enhance healthcare accessibility for underprivileged youth. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt charities based in King County, with updated organizational profiles.
Health & Medicine Children’s Health & Pediatrics

Needs-Based Public School Capital Fund

North Carolina Department of Public Instruction
State/Local Government
Alamance County, North Carolina, Alexander County, North Carolina +92 more
Up to US $62,000,000
The Needs-Based Public School Capital Fund supports North Carolina counties in addressing critical public school building needs through grants funded by the NC Education Lottery. With over $258 million available for FY2025-26, counties can apply for significant funding to construct new schools and renovate existing facilities. Eligible counties must have a market value of taxable real property under $40 billion and are required to provide local matching funds. This initiative aims to enhance educational infrastructure across the state.
Education Education - K through 12

Future Fund Grant

Bread & Roses Community Fund
Private
Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Camden County, New Jersey +4 more
US $5,000
The Future Fund Grant, offered by the Bread & Roses Community Fund, provides $5,000 to emerging groups in Philadelphia focused on social justice and community organizing. It aims to support those challenging power imbalances and fostering sustainable change. Eligible applicants must meet specific criteria, including being a designated 501(c)(3) organization. While the fund champions innovative activism, it does not support direct service work or traditional educational programs. Applications are not currently accepted for 2025.
Social Justice / Human Rights Civic Engagement & 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.