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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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32,305 Results based on applied filters

Kleberg Foundation: Arts & Humanities Grant

Robert J. Kleberg, Jr. and Helen C. Kleberg Foundation
Private
Brooks County, Texas, Jim Wells County, Texas +3 more
Unspecified amount
The Kleberg Foundation supports arts and humanities initiatives, prioritizing established organizations with a history of partnership. Grants focus on high-caliber visual arts exhibitions in Kleberg and nearby counties, emphasizing educational outreach and public engagement. While capital projects are rarely funded, pre-approval discussions with Foundation staff are encouraged. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations and public universities, with an annual application limit for arts organizations.
Visual Arts

EMBO Postdoctoral Fellowships

European Molecular Biology Organization
Association/Society
Austria, Belgium +32 more
Unspecified amount
The EMBO Postdoctoral Fellowships support researchers with a doctoral degree to pursue postdoctoral training in EMBC Member States. Grants cover employment contracts and stipends for fellows in non-member countries. Eligible applicants must have a first author publication and apply within two years of obtaining their PhD. Benefits include childcare and relocation allowances, as well as opportunities for networking and participation in leadership courses. The fellowship duration is typically two years, with flexibility for shorter terms.
Molecular Biology

Edinburgh Botanic Garden (Sibbald) Trust Fellowships

Edinburgh Botanic Garden (Sibbald) Trust
Private
United Kingdom
Unspecified amount
The Edinburgh Botanic Garden (Sibbald) Trust Fellowships support taxonomic research and related activities that benefit the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. The Trust prioritizes smaller projects in spring and fellowships in autumn. Funding is available for various research and illustration projects, as well as for botanists seeking to utilize the Garden's extensive resources. Applications must include a report from any previous projects completed within the last year to be considered.
Plant Science

Jane C. Waldbaum Archaeological Field School Scholarship

Archaeological Institute of America
Association/Society
Canada, United States
US $2,000
The Jane C. Waldbaum Archaeological Field School Scholarship, established by the Archaeological Institute of America, supports students participating in archaeological fieldwork for the first time. With a funding amount of $1000, this scholarship is aimed at junior and senior undergraduates and first-year graduate students who are studying archaeology or related disciplines. Eligible applicants must be at least 18 years old and demonstrate academic achievement and financial need.
Archaeology

Meeting Organizer Grants

Federation of European Microbiological Societies
Association/Society
Europe
Up to €15,000
The Meeting Organizer Grants by the Federation of European Microbiological Societies support both virtual and in-person meetings, offering up to €15,000. Designed for members of FEMS Member Societies, these grants prioritize funding for Early Career Scientists' attendance. Eligible events include scientific conferences, workshops, and training courses within Europe, promoting collaboration and knowledge sharing in the microbiological community.
Microbiology

Conservation of Natural Areas, Recreational Lands, Historic Properties

Vermont Housing and Conservation Board
State/Local Government
Vermont
Unspecified amount

Conservation projects of statewide significance are eligible for VHCB Conservation Project funding. These include natural areas that provide habitat for rare or endangered species, acquisition of lands to provide public access to trails or water, greenways, or acquisition of important historic properties for public use.

Historic Preservation

Robert & Doris Hanna Scholarship Fund

Chester County Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

About the Chester County Community Foundation

Our Mission

The Chester County Community Foundation connects people who care with the causes that matter, so their philanthropy makes a difference now and forever.

Robert & Doris Hanna Scholarship Fund

Mission

The Chester County Community Foundation honors the long and philanthropic lives of Dr. Robert and Doris Hanna.

Education - Higher Education

Arnold O. Beckman Postdoctoral Fellowship

Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation
Private
United States
US $224,000 - US $542,000
The Arnold O. Beckman Postdoctoral Fellowship offers researchers the opportunity to advance their studies in Chemical Sciences or Chemical Instrumentation. This program supports innovative research within fundamental chemistry and the development of new instrumentation. Candidates must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, or DACA recipients, with a PhD in the chemical sciences anticipated by May 1, 2026. Mentorship from a qualified institution is required, fostering independent research capabilities in a collaborative environment.
Chemistry Chemical Engineering

Community Mini Grants

Delta Dental of Michigan
Association/Society
Indiana, Michigan +1 more
Up to US $10,000
The Delta Dental Foundation's Community Mini Grants provide up to $10,000 to local nonprofits promoting oral health care in Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana. These grants focus on enhancing access to dental care for at-risk populations, educating communities about oral health, and supporting innovative programs. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with strategic aims and the ability to achieve impactful results. This initiative seeks to improve community health through dedicated funding and support for effective oral health programs.
Dental Health

Science Teacher Award

Native Plant Society of New Mexico
Association/Society
New Mexico
US $500
The Science Teacher Award, provided by the Native Plant Society of New Mexico, honors dedicated grade 6-12 science teachers who effectively teach about plants and plant science. This one-time award of $500 recognizes the achievements of teachers from the past two years and includes a complimentary native plant guide book. Eligible nominations can come from teachers themselves or others familiar with their work, with all teachers being equally considered, regardless of NPSNM membership.
Plant Science

Native Plant Society of New Mexico Donations

Native Plant Society of New Mexico
Association/Society
New Mexico
Up to US $5,000
The Native Plant Society of New Mexico is dedicated to educating the public about native plants and fostering conservation efforts. Through donations, they support regional herbaria that archive biodiversity and promote botanical research. Their contributions aid in digitizing herbarium specimens for broader access, ensuring the preservation of ecological knowledge. This initiative invites other herbaria in New Mexico and West Texas to apply for funding, enhancing collaborative efforts in plant conservation and education.
Plant Science

Professional Development - Texas Library Association (TLA) Travel Stipend

Tocker Foundation
Private
Texas
Unspecified amount
The Tocker Foundation, established in 1964, focuses on enhancing the educational opportunities for rural librarians in Texas. Through the Texas Library Association (TLA) Travel Stipend, the foundation supports library staff from communities with populations of 12,000 or less to attend the TLA's annual conference. This initiative allows librarians to gain valuable insights, network with peers, and enrich their professional development, ultimately benefiting their local communities.
Library & Information Science Library Services

The Anne S. Chatham Fellowship in Medicinal Botany

Garden Club of America
Association/Society
United States
US $4,500
The Anne S. Chatham Fellowship in Medicinal Botany, funded by the Garden Club of America, aims to protect and expand knowledge of medicinal plants. It offers a $4,500 grant to support Ph.D. students and recent graduates in pursuing essential research that may otherwise be inaccessible. This initiative not only fosters botanical research but also contributes to the development of therapies that enhance patient quality of life and potentially save lives.
Plant Science

PCCD Victims Compensation Assistance Program (VCAP)

Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency
State/Local Government
Pennsylvania
Up to US $5,000

PCCD Victims Compensation Assistance Program (VCAP)

The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency's (PCCD) Victims Compensation Assistance Program is designed to support individuals who have suffered physical, emotional, or financial harm due to a crime. This program offers financial aid for various expenses to help alleviate the financial burden on victims and their families.

On average, VCAP receives over 12,000 new claims and pays an average $13 million per year on behalf of crime victims. VCAP is able to reimburse insurance co-pays, out-of-network expenses and other out-of-pocket costs.

Crime Victim Services

The Zeller Summer Scholarship in Medicinal Botany

Garden Club of America
Association/Society
United States
US $3,000
The Zeller Summer Scholarship in Medicinal Botany, initiated by the Garden Club of America, supports US undergraduate students pursuing summer studies in medicinal botany. Established in 2003 in honor of Caroline Brown's family, the scholarship encourages students to engage in various educational projects and internships. Eligibility includes enrollment in an accredited US college, with restrictions on international applicants. This initiative fosters knowledge in the field, promoting environmental awareness and academic excellence.
Plant Science

2026-2027 ESC Texas Instructional Leadership (TIL) Mentorship Grant

Texas Education Agency
State/Local Government
Texas
Unspecified amount

2026-2027 ESC Texas Instructional Leadership (TIL) Mentorship Grant

Program Purpose, Goals, and Objectives

The purpose of this grant is to provide for ESC-to-ESC mentorship with regards to ESCs’ efforts to implement Texas Instructional Leadership (TIL) training in their regions for the benefit of campuses and school systems participating in school improvement activities. The participating ESC will provide yearlong guidance, training, and coaching to other ESCs to support building, developing, and deploying their TIL teams. One ESC will receive grant funds to provide mentorship support to nineteen other ESCs.

Teacher Development & Training

BioLEAP Classroom Grant

National Anti Vivisection Society
Private
United States
Up to US $1,000
The BioLEAP Classroom Grant, funded by the National Anti Vivisection Society, provides educators with up to $1,000 to purchase humane anatomy models, replacing traditional animal dissection methods. This initiative supports the use of innovative learning tools like 3D digital models and synthetic specimens, enhancing educational experiences while promoting ethical practices in science education. Eligible applicants must be U.S. educators teaching an anatomy lab in the upcoming school year.
STEM / STEAM Education

Health & Human Services Community Grant Cycle

Community Foundation of Lorain County
Private
Lorain County, Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Health & Human Services Community Grant Cycle provides essential operating and project support for organizations serving residents of Lorain County. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt organizations classified as 501(c)(3) charities, focusing on innovative programs that address community needs. Applicants must adhere to accountability and sustainability requirements while fulfilling prior reporting obligations. The grant encourages diversified funding and prioritizes programs that foster collaboration within the community.
Human & Social Services Health & Medicine

The Joan K. Hunt and Rachel M. Hunt Summer Scholarship in Field Botany

Garden Club of America
Association/Society
United States
US $3,500
The Joan K. Hunt and Rachel M. Hunt Summer Scholarship in Field Botany aims to promote the study of field botany among students in the U.S. by providing a $3500 annual grant for summer study opportunities. Eligible students include undergraduates and graduate students up to the master's degree level, who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. The scholarship encourages hands-on experience in various botanical projects, enhancing the understanding and appreciation of botany in horticulture.
Plant Science

Adult Education State Grants

Connecticut State Department of Education
State/Local Government
Connecticut
Unspecified amount
The Connecticut State Department of Education offers Adult Education State Grants to support programs for adult learners in Connecticut. These grants are based on eligible costs and are available to local education agencies that provide or facilitate adult education services. Eligible applicants can include school districts and educational service centers working collaboratively to enhance educational opportunities for adults. This initiative aims to improve access to education and foster lifelong learning in the community.
Adult Education

Bolivian Society of St. Louis Scholarship

Bolivian Society of St. Louis
Association/Society
Bond County, Illinois, Calhoun County, Illinois +13 more
Up to US $500

Bolivian Society of St. Louis

The Bolivian Society of St. Louis was founded in 1965 by Bolivian immigrants to promote and preserve the rich customs and culture of Bolivia for future generations and new Bolivian immigrants. We are a 501(c)3 non-profit organization in the Greater St. Louis Area.

Whether you're a native Bolivian, connecting with your family’s culture, or curious to learn more, we would love to have you join us at one of our events or fundraisers for some of the best food, music, traditions, and community that Bolivia has to offer.

Bolivian Society of St. Louis Scholarship

The scholarship is awarded on the basis of merit, community outreach, outstanding academic performance, and ancestry. Students of Bolivian and Hispanic/Latino ancestry (up to two generations) planning to enroll in a university, college, or trade school are eligible to apply. Preference will be given first to students of Bolivian decent, then to students born in a Latin American country, then to students of Latin American decent. 

Academic Scholarship Programs

Gary W. Troll Memorial Scholarship

Marion Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Gary W. Troll Memorial Scholarship

The Gary W. Troll Memorial Scholarship Fund, created in 2002, supports higher education for students who reside in the service area of the Northwest Ohio Educational Service Center, where Gary Troll (1947-2002) served as superintendent.

Recipients of the Troll Scholarship may come from any of the high schools in the Northwest Ohio Educational Service Center’s district, including Marion County—Elgin, Pleasant, Ridgedale, and River Valley; Seneca County—Bettsville, Hopewell-Louden, New Riegel, Old Fort, and Seneca East; and, Wyandot County—Carey, Mohawk, and Upper Sandusky. They will be seniors with a GPA of 2.75 or above.

Education - Higher Education

The Garden Club of America Fellowship in Tropical Botany

Garden Club of America
Association/Society
United States
US $5,500
The Garden Club of America Fellowship in Tropical Botany aims to enhance the preservation of tropical forests by increasing the number of botanists with practical field experience. Established in 1983, the fellowship provides two grants of $5,500 annually for doctoral candidates pursuing research in tropical plant systematics and forest ecology. Eligible applicants include U.S. citizens or permanent residents enrolled in U.S. institutions, who are expected to complete their Ph.D. in Botany within two years.
Plant Science

Traveling Fellowship to Australia and New Zealand

American College Of Surgeons
Private
Australia and New Zealand
Up to US $10,000
The Traveling Fellowship to Australia and New Zealand, offered by the American College of Surgeons, promotes international collaboration in surgical science and education. Applicants can receive $10,000 to cover travel costs while engaging in professional exchanges. The fellowship requires a minimum stay of two to three weeks, participation in key surgical congresses, and visits to medical centers. This initiative fosters academic partnerships and cultural interactions between surgeons from North America and the Australasian region.
Surgery

The Laura W. R. and George N. Appell Research Grants

The Firebird Foundation
Private
Maine
Up to US $40,000
The Laura W. R. and George N. Appell Research Grants, offered by The Firebird Foundation, support the preservation of oral literature and traditional ecological knowledge among indigenous communities. Established to honor the Appell couple's dedication to the Rungus Momogon of Sabah, Malaysia, these grants provide up to $40,000 for community-based projects. They encourage collaboration with community members to safeguard their cultural heritage and environmental knowledge, addressing the urgent need to document rapidly disappearing art forms.
Anthropology & Cultural Studies Linguistics

Environment Program: Strategy II- Nature Learning Grant

The Onion Foundation
Private
Maine
Unspecified amount
The Onion Foundation's Environment Program aims to enhance nature learning for Maine's youth, especially in underserved rural areas. By providing high-quality, science-based educational opportunities, the program seeks to cultivate an appreciation for natural systems and their importance to a vibrant life. Key priorities include developing standards-aligned nature programs and facilitating transformative outdoor experiences. This initiative addresses educational disparities, ensuring all children can benefit from rich environmental education and engagement with their local ecosystems.
Environmental Education

LSTA Grants: Enhancing Academic, Special, and Tribal Libraries Mini Grant

State Library of Oregon
State/Local Government
Oregon
Up to US $5,000

Government Information and Library Services

Government Services provides specialized information services to state government employees and the public and maintains several collections including Federal and Oregon documents.

About LSTA Grants

LSTA grants are one of the many ways the State Library supports library services across Oregon through its federally funded Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Program, administered on the national level by the Institute of Museum and Library Services' Grants to States Program.

What We Fund

LSTA funds are intended to be used for projects that support library services in Oregon, and address at least one of the goals of Oregon's LSTA Five-Year Plan. LSTA monies may not supplant local responsibility or replace lost funding.

LSTA Grants: Enhancing Academic, Special, and Tribal Libraries Mini Grant

The State Library is offering small grants to academic institutions, special libraries, and tribal entities to strengthen their libraries and enable them to more fully support their communities.

Projects must address one or more of the following focal areas: collections, staff development, and technology. See our list of Possible Projects (below) for examples in each of these areas.

Funds will be distributed in advance and recipients will be expected to commit to spending the entire grant amount.

Possible Projects

This is a list of ideas to get you thinking about the possibilities; you are not required to choose any of these projects.

Collections:

  • Purchase print materials and/or perpetual access e-books that fill gaps in the collection or meet specific community needs.
  • Build up course reserve collections.
  • Purchase materials in various languages or formats.

Staff Development:

  • Organize a learning opportunity for staff.
  • Bring in a facilitator to conduct an activity or workshop.
  • Have staff engage in an external professional development opportunity, such as a conference or online course.

Technology:

  • Lend devices to eliminate barriers to technology.
  • Update public and/or staff computer workstations.
  • Acquire assistive technology that enhances access for individuals with disabilities.
  • Establish a dedicated area for confidential virtual appointments.

Each organization may request funding for one project that fits into one of the focal areas.

Spending must adhere to Allowable Costs. Subscriptions and licenses must fall within the grant period. Entities may include indirect costs in the budget, as outlined in 2 CFR 200.414.

Library Services Technology Access & Digital Literacy

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.