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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+

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$8.25B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

32,000+ grants
$8.25B total
$6K median

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32,390 Results based on applied filters

Justinian Award for Lifetime Achievement & Professional Excellence

Johnson County Bar Association
Private
Johnson County, Kansas
Unspecified amount

About JoCo Bar

The Johnson County Bar Association has served the legal community since 1938. Through leadership, member services, professional development, and community engagement, JoCo Bar supports attorneys, judges, and legal professionals throughout Johnson County.

Johnson County Bar Annual Awards

Each year, JoCo Bar recognizes outstanding service, professionalism, leadership, and dedication within our legal community.

Justinian Award for Lifetime Achievement & Professional Excellence

The recipient will have made a significant legal impact within the community, demonstrated exemplary ethical standards, and consistently shown integrity, warmth, friendliness, and camaraderie.

Law Legal Services

Newington Community Fund (Previously Newington Greater Together Community Fund Grant)

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
Unspecified amount
The Hartford Foundation for Public Giving has launched the $100,000 Greater Together Community Fund Grant for Newington. This initiative aims to empower local communities by fostering ownership of their needs, promoting inclusive civic engagement, and strengthening the Foundation's presence in towns. Eligible applicants include any 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving West Hartford residents, regardless of their base. The GTCF Committee will facilitate a process to identify community needs and ensure impactful grantmaking.
Community Services Civic Engagement & Education

JCBA Pro Bono Award

Johnson County Bar Association
Private
Johnson County, Kansas
Unspecified amount

About JoCo Bar

The Johnson County Bar Association has served the legal community since 1938. Through leadership, member services, professional development, and community engagement, JoCo Bar supports attorneys, judges, and legal professionals throughout Johnson County.

Johnson County Bar Annual Awards

Each year, JoCo Bar recognizes outstanding service, professionalism, leadership, and dedication within our legal community.

Pro Bono Award

The award recognizes extraordinary contributions of time, resources, and talent to pro bono efforts.

Law Legal Services

C. Warren Barry Perpetual Foundation Grant

Barry C Warren Fdn Ta
Private
Lake County, Florida
US $1,000 - US $2,500
The C. Warren Barry Perpetual Foundation Grant supports charitable, educational, and religious causes, primarily within Lake County, Florida. Established in the late 1970s by Mr. Barry, the foundation exclusively funds organizations recognized under IRS Section 501(c)(3). Types of support include program funding, general operating expenses, and scholarships. However, it does not provide grants for capital improvements, ensuring that resources are directed towards immediate community needs.
Education Community Services Religion & Spirituality

NWF: Ecoleader Fellowship

The National Wildlife Federation
Private
United States
US $4,750
The National Wildlife Federation's Ecoleader Fellowship offers graduate students the opportunity to conduct impactful market research that enhances NWF's Education and Engagement programs. Selected fellows will receive a $5,000 stipend while developing vital skills, contributing to critical research goals aimed at understanding EcoLeader market segments, and analyzing best practices for environmental education initiatives. This fellowship not only supports individual career growth but also fosters a network of emerging leaders committed to sustainability.
Environmental Education Sustainability

Chateaubriand Fellowship: Humanities and Social Sciences

Ambassade de France aux Etats-Unis
Federal Government
France
Unspecified amount
The Chateaubriand Fellowship in Humanities and Social Sciences supports exceptional PhD students from U.S. institutions who aim to conduct research in France for 4 to 9 months. Offered by the Embassy of France, this merit-based program encourages interdisciplinary studies and collaboration with French scholars. Fellows receive a monthly allowance, airfare, and health insurance, promoting academic exchange and cultural dialogue between the U.S. and France.
Humanities & Social Science Education - Higher Education

SSRC-JF Next Gen Japan Visiting Professor Grants

Social Science Research Council
Private
United States
Up to US $20,000

Mission

The Social Science Research Council (SSRC) is an independent, international, nonprofit organization founded in 1923. The Council fosters innovative research, nurtures new generations of social scientists, deepens how inquiry is practiced within and across disciplines, and mobilizes necessary knowledge on important public issues.

SSRC-JF Next Gen Japan Visiting Professor Grants

The SSRC-JF Next Generation Japan Studies Development Program provides grants of up to $20,000 to US academic institutions or consortia of institutions to host Japan-based faculty for a six-week stay in the United States. This program is supported by the Japan Foundation.

Background

At the core of the Next Gen Japan Program is the idea that scholarly engagement and collaboration by students and scholars across disciplines, the boundaries of the nation-state, and cultures are central to effectively addressing the pressing concerns facing societies today.

The Next Gen Japan Visiting Professor Grants provides Japan-based faculty who research Japanese society an opportunity for intellectual engagement with US faculty, students, and local communities. It further provides the professor with professional development experience in presenting their work in English and conducting their own research in the US.

Hosting institutions, likewise, will gain access to international scholars and exposure to research from outside the United States.

Priorities

Priority is given to:

  • Visiting professors hosted at liberal arts colleges, universities, college consortia, or community colleges located in the US South and Midwest for the duration of the grant.
  • The hosting of early- to mid-career faculty.
  • Engagement Plans that are designed to attract interdisciplinary audiences and support interdisciplinary networking ranging from academic fields such as the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and the wider general public.

Humanities & Social Science Cross-Cultural Understanding & Exchanges

Mary Josephine Bloder Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Mary Josephine Bloder Scholarship Fund, established by a dedicated teacher, supports Lahainaluna High School boarding students who excel in science. This renewable scholarship aims to assist those in financial need while maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0. Eligible applicants must submit two letters of recommendation, including one from a science teacher at the school, ensuring that past recipients can reapply if they continue to meet the criteria.
Science Academic Scholarship Programs

Midland Area Youth Action Council Grants

Midland Area Community Foundation
Private
Midland County, Michigan
Up to US $10,000
The Midland Area Community Foundation offers the Midland County Youth Action Council Grants, designed to empower local youth through funding requests up to $10,000. This initiative supports projects that directly enhance the lives of young people in Midland County. Eligible applicants include 501c3 nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities that serve local residents. The foundation emphasizes community improvement, fostering collaboration, and creating lasting legacies that make a significant impact.
Youth Services Community Services

Emergency Readiness Grants

Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities
Private
Louisiana
Up to US $5,000
The Emergency Readiness Grants, offered by the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities, aim to support cultural organizations in Louisiana in preparing for and responding to emergencies, such as hurricanes and floods. With funding up to $5,000 available, these grants help organizations develop strategies to mitigate the impact of future disasters, thereby strengthening the resilience of Louisiana's cultural infrastructure.
Disaster Preparedness Humanities & Social Science

Mary J. Mullarkey Scholarship

The Denver Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,000 - US $10,000
The Mary J. Mullarkey Scholarship, funded by The Denver Foundation, supports students of color, women, and LGBTQ+ individuals pursuing law degrees at accredited U.S. law schools. Eligible candidates must be graduating with an undergraduate degree from an accredited Colorado college or St. Norbert College, demonstrate financial need, and show academic excellence along with community contributions. One scholarship of up to $10,000 is awarded annually based on these criteria, promoting diversity in legal education.
Law Education - Higher Education

Deihl Humanities Grants

Greater Manhattan Community Foundation
Private
Riley County, Kansas
More than US $10,000
The Deihl Humanities Grants, established by the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation, aim to support community and public arts or humanities projects that enhance the quality of life in Manhattan and Riley County, Kansas. With a focus on proposals exceeding $10,000, these grants encourage initiatives that bring humanities to life through public programming, fostering community engagement and connections among individuals.
Humanities & Social Science Public / Community Art

AGC Undergraduate Scholarship

Agc Education And Research Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $10,000

AGC Undergraduate Scholarship

The AGC Education and Research Foundation offers undergraduate and graduate level scholarships to students enrolled in ABET, ACCE and some ATMAE-accredited construction management or construction related engineering programs. Over $11 million in scholarships have been awarded to more than 4,500 students attending colleges and universities across the country. 

Through endowments made by AGC members and supporters, as well as AGC Chapters, the Foundation is able to give 150 or more undergraduate and graduate scholarships each year to deserving students. Undergraduate students receive up to $2,500 per academic year (renewable for 3 years).

To be considered for renewal annual award installments, the scholarship recipient is required to provide indications of continued enrollment and good standing (min. 2.0 GPA). Grade transcripts and upcoming class schedules MUST be forwarded at the conclusion of each academic period. Recipients will not be reminded to provide this information; failure to do so will result in non-renewal of scholarship award installments. Recipients are encouraged to seek summer employment in construction during undergraduate enrollment.

Education - Higher Education Engineering

PLTW Engineering - New Program (PPG Industries)

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
Cuyahoga County, Ohio, Guilford County, North Carolina +1 more
US $15,000
The PLTW Engineering grant, funded by PPG Industries, aims to support schools in implementing PLTW Engineering programs for the 2025-2026 academic year. Eligible schools in Huntsville, AL, Greensboro, NC, and Cleveland, OH can apply for a total award of $20,000, distributed over two years. Schools must offer one PLTW course in the first year and another in the following year, ensuring a commitment to enhancing STEM education in their communities.
Engineering STEM / STEAM Education

Italian-American Republican Club Scholarship

Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation
Private
United States
US $350

Through the generosity of fundholders and donors, NCCF has awarded more than half a million dollars in scholarships to assist students in Northwest Connecticut with the cost of higher education.

NCCF awards more than $530,000 in scholarships a year. 

Italian-American Republican Club Scholarship

Academic Focus:

  • Political science, government, history or pre-law

Award Average:

  • $350

For Torrington residents of Italian descent who are entering their junior or senior year at a college or university and are majoring in political science, government, history or pre-law

Law Political Science History

PLTW Engineering - Program Expansion (PPG Industries)

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
Cuyahoga County, Ohio, Guilford County, North Carolina +1 more
US $10,000
The PLTW Engineering grant, funded by PPG Industries, supports schools in enhancing their existing PLTW Engineering programs for the 2025-2026 academic year. Eligible institutions, including public and charter schools in specified cities, can use funds for course expansions, teacher training, and necessary equipment. The initiative aims to maintain high-quality engineering education while ensuring compliance with reporting requirements. Unallowable expenses include salaries and infrastructure costs.
STEM / STEAM Education Engineering

Clyde Fillmore Scholarship Endowment

Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation
Private
Texas
US $1,000

Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation

For over 25 years, the Community Foundation has remained committed to leaving a legacy for future generations by promoting philanthropy, providing charitable opportunities, and facilitating donors’ interests. We work alongside donors and community partners to help meet area needs, create solutions, and inspire action to build a vibrant community today and a stronger community for tomorrow. 

Scholarships

The Community Foundation is home to 50 scholarship funds established by generous individuals, organizations and businesses to help students from our community and surrounding areas pursue their dreams through education. 

Clyde Fillmore Scholarship Endowment

The Clyde Fillmore Scholarship was setup by the Wichita County Bar Association in 1998 at the Texas Bar Foundation, and moved to WFACF in 2012. It was established as tribute to an exceptional attorney and man, Clyde Fillmore. A World War II veteran and former POW in Burma and Thailand, Clyde had a deep appreciation for freedom and justice. After surviving torturous work during the war, Clyde was able to return home to Wichita Falls, his family, and his profession. He was elected as District Attorney, and later went into private practice to become an outstanding civil trial lawyer. Clyde practiced law for more than 70 years. The one-time $1,000 scholarship in his honor is open to current college students who graduated from a Wichita County high school, attending or applying to any law school in Texas. 

Law Education - Higher Education

Community Energy Management Program

Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE)
State/Local Government
Michigan
Up to US $25,000
The Community Energy Management Program, administered by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), provides matching grants to local governments and tribes for energy management improvements. This initiative aims to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy implementation, aligning with Michigan's climate goals. Eligible projects include energy audits, efficiency upgrades, and community engagement efforts, with a total funding pool of $300,000 and a maximum award of $25,000 per applicant.
Renewable/Sustainable Energy Energy Energy Efficiency & Conservation

Thomas D. Buckley Trust Grant

Thomas D. Buckley Trust
Corporate
Cheyenne County, Nebraska, Deuel County, Nebraska +2 more
Unspecified amount
The Thomas D. Buckley Trust Grant, established by Thomas D. Buckley, supports nonprofit organizations focusing on education, religion, and community programs primarily in the Western Panhandle of Nebraska and Northeast Colorado. Following Buckley's passing in 1979, the Trust was formed and has since provided grants to tax-exempt organizations that demonstrate sound financial management and adhere to eligibility requirements, with monthly reviews of grant requests.
Community Services Education Religion & Spirituality

Charlye Farris Scholarship Endowment

Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation
Private
Texas
US $1,000

Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation

For over 25 years, the Community Foundation has remained committed to leaving a legacy for future generations by promoting philanthropy, providing charitable opportunities, and facilitating donors’ interests. We work alongside donors and community partners to help meet area needs, create solutions, and inspire action to build a vibrant community today and a stronger community for tomorrow. 

Scholarships

The Community Foundation is home to 50 scholarship funds established by generous individuals, organizations and businesses to help students from our community and surrounding areas pursue their dreams through education. 

Charlye Farris Scholarship Endowment

The Charlye Farris Scholarship was established as an endowment fund by the Wichita County Bar Association in 2001 to honor the life and accomplishments of Wichita Falls native, Charlye O. Farris. Charlye was valedictorian of the Booker T. Washington class of 1945 at age 15. She graduated from Prairie View A&M College at 18, and graduated from Howard University with a law degree in 1953. That same year, Charlye returned to Texas to pass the bar exam and become the first Black, female lawyer in Texas. She prevailed during the time of segregation, with odds against her, and achieved professional excellence as a practicing attorney in Wichita Falls for over 50 years, with peers citing her work ethic, courage, and principles as a model for all. The one-time $1,000 scholarship hosted by WFACF is for current college students who graduated from Wichita County high schools, attending or applying to any law school in Texas. 

Education - Higher Education Law

Streicker Fund for Student Research

Yale University
Private
Asia, Australia and New Zealand +26 more
US $1,600 - US $4,000
The Streicker Fund for Student Research at Yale University offers financial support for academic projects requiring international travel, primarily aimed at students conducting research under faculty supervision. These projects may include field research and interviews, and must occur during school breaks. The fund targets various destinations based on expense levels, ensuring accessibility for a broad range of students. This initiative emphasizes the importance of educational travel while maintaining academic commitments.
Law Academic Success & Enrichment

Bloomfield Greater Together Community Fund Grant

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $500 - US $10,000
The Bloomfield Greater Together Community Fund Grant, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, aims to empower local organizations by providing financial support for projects that benefit Bloomfield residents. Eligible organizations must be classified as 501c3 or have a fiscal sponsor. The fund seeks to foster community ownership, encourage civic engagement, and strengthen the Hartford Foundation's presence in the town. This initiative is vital for building inclusive and vibrant communities in Greater Hartford.
Civic Engagement & Education Community Services

McMahon Surovik Suttle, P.C. Scholarship

Community Foundation of Abilene
Private
Texas
US $500 - US $5,000
The McMahon Surovik Suttle, P.C. Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, provides financial support to Big Country area students pursuing a law degree. Eligible applicants must be full-time students with a minimum GPA of 3.5 and must have been admitted to an accredited Texas law school. This scholarship honors the legacy of retired partners Stephen Suttle and Bob Surovik, promoting legal education in West Texas.
Law Academic Scholarship Programs

Willson Center Faculty Research Fellowship

University of Georgia
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Willson Center Faculty Research Fellowship at the University of Georgia supports tenured and tenure-track faculty in their arts and humanities research. This fellowship, awarded every five years, encourages interdisciplinary work and provides course release from two assigned courses. It aims to foster excellence in creative practice and scholarly activities, ensuring a conducive environment for faculty to pursue their research goals effectively.
Humanities & Social Science Art Education

OER HQIM Embedded - Assessment Ingestion

Texas Education Agency
State/Local Government
Texas
US $544,286 - US $915,712
The Texas Education Agency is offering a 2025-2028 OER HQIM Embedded-Assessment Ingestion grant aimed at enhancing assessment platforms for school districts. This initiative will integrate embedded assessments from Open Educational Resources (OER) High Quality Instructional Materials, facilitating effective data collection and analysis to improve student outcomes. The grant targets Education Service Center Regions 7 and 10, ensuring that educational entities can efficiently utilize assessment data in the upcoming school years.
Academic Success & Enrichment Data Science & Digital Information Systems

Monona Fund Grant

Madison Community Foundation
Private
Dane County, Wisconsin
Up to US $4,000

About Madison Community FoundationSince 1942, Madison Community Foundation (MCF) has been building a stronger, more generous community and helping people like you make a lasting impact through charitable giving. Mission : MCF will engage Greater Madison in philanthropy to advance a more vibrant and equitable community.About Monona Fund GrantThe Monona Fund embodies a collective passion for the vibrant community of Monona. Donors to the Fund share a commitment to pay it forward, fostering a culture of generosity that encourages others to contribute for the enduring benefit of the Monona community. The Monona Fund is an endowment fund designed to provide on-going resources to enhance the quality of life in Monona.The Monona Fund endeavors to encourage civic involvement through:

  • Enhancing the quality of life
  • Promoting citizen involvement
  • Enriching public gathering spaces
  • Supporting community values and a civic agenda
Civic Engagement & Education Community Services

General Fund Local Contribution

City of Suffolk Virginia
State/Local Government
Suffolk City, Virginia
Unspecified amount
The City of Suffolk is inviting nonprofit organizations and established boards to apply for funding through the General Fund Local Contributions as part of the FY 2025-2026 budget. Eligible applicants must be charitable institutions providing services to Suffolk citizens and meet specific criteria, ensuring that funding supports community development effectively.
Community Development & Revitalization Community Services Human & Social Services

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.

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.