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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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32,241 Results based on applied filters

KCF Emergency Scholarship Fund

Kalamazoo Community Foundation
Private
Kalamazoo County, Michigan
Up to US $5,000
The KCF Emergency Scholarship Fund provides financial support to Kalamazoo County residents pursuing post-secondary education. Established in 2021, this fund addresses unexpected tuition or book expenses that may hinder students from completing their education. Eligible applicants can use the funds for various costs, including tuition, course materials, and testing fees. The application process is ongoing, with awards issued on a rolling basis until funds are depleted.
Academic Scholarship Programs

GECU Foundation Charitable Grant

Gecu Foundation
Private
El Paso County, Texas
Unspecified amount
The GECU Foundation Charitable Grant aims to enhance community welfare through charitable contributions and volunteerism. It focuses on vital issues such as education, health, and housing, supporting organizations that promote savings mobilization, employment, and diversity. The foundation evaluates requests quarterly, ensuring that contributions effectively address core community development challenges. By fostering inclusion and providing access to resources, the GECU Foundation strives to elevate the lives of individuals in its communities.
Education Human & Social Services Nonprofit Growth & Development

Faith Christian Scholarship

Greene County Foundation Inc.
Private
Indiana
Unspecified amount

Greene County Foundation

Founded as a public charity in 1997, the Greene County Foundation is a vital and sustainable organization that serves the Greene County community. A volunteer Board of Directors, whose makeup reflects the diversity of the communities it serves, governs the Foundation. The Foundation annually awards over a quarter million dollars in grants through fund payouts, competitive grants, and student scholarships and has made an impact in every school, town, city, and informal community in Greene County.

Faith Christian Scholarship

The Faith Christian Scholarship is for graduating high school seniors who attended any Greene County high school at the time of graduation; it is also open to home-schooled students who are graduating. Applicants must be planning to attend a two- or four-year accredited post-secondary institution in Indiana. The Faith Christian Scholarship is a donor-advised scholarship established by the deacons of Faith Christian Church in Bloomfield as a result of a bequeath by Francis Gainey. Ms. Gainey understood the importance of education and wanted to help students attend college, who might not otherwise have the family support or means to attend. The scholarship will be renewable for up to four years, based on academic performance. Students will need to show proof of their academic progress each spring semester to be considered for scholarship renewal.

Education - Higher Education

CFWM Capacity-Building Grants

Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts
Private
Massachusetts
US $2,500
The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts offers Capacity-Building Grants to support artists in Franklin, Hampshire, or Hampden counties. Each grant provides $2,500 along with professional development, coaching, and community-building resources. This initiative aims to enhance the sustainability of artists from diverse backgrounds, encouraging those who have not received grants previously to apply. The program fosters equal opportunities and prioritizes applicants who identify as black, indigenous, or a person of color.
Artist Training & Development

DC Mayor’s Scholars Undergraduate Program (DC)

District of Columbia Office of the State Superintendent of Education
State/Local Government
District of Columbia, Maryland +1 more
Up to US $24,000
The DC Mayor’s Scholars Undergraduate Program provides need-based funding for District of Columbia residents pursuing their first associate or bachelor’s degree at select colleges. As a last-dollar award, it helps cover tuition gaps after other financial aid. Eligible applicants must have been DC residents for at least a year, maintain satisfactory academic progress, and have household incomes below 300% of the federal poverty guidelines. Funding caps are $4,000 annually, with limits on total awards.
Education - Higher Education

Emerging Adult Reentry Initiative Technical Assistance Provider Grant Program

Commonwealth of Massachusetts
State/Local Government
Massachusetts
Up to US $525,000

Emerging Adult Reentry Initiative Technical Assistance Provider

The Emerging Adult Reentry Initiative provides funding for reentry programming for young adults with the goal of reducing recidivism and increasing public safety. Funding is available to help community reentry program sites provide pre- and post-release services to the target individuals and to work closely with a correctional partner to identify, serve and monitor program participants. A Technical Assistance Provider provides strategic, analytic, technical and research support for each program site.  

This program is made available through state funding.

The Office of Grants and Research (OGR) is responsible for managing state appropriated criminal justice funding awarded to the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) from the Massachusetts State Legislature. The SFY27 Emerging Adult Reentry Initiative provides funds for pre- and post-release offenders currently within and/or outside the prison walls. This initiative is being supported by state funds authorized by Chapter 126 of the Massachusetts Acts of 2026, An Act Making Appropriations for Fiscal Yea

Reentry Services

Dr. A.I. Slagle Medical Educational Scholarship

Armstrong County Community Foundation (The Community Foundation Serving the Heart of Western Pennsylvania)
Private
United States
Approximately US $72,800

Dr. A.I. Slagle Medical Educational Scholarship

The Dr. A.I. Slagle Medical Education Scholarship is for students entering their first year at an accredited medical school in the US to obtain an MD or DO. This is a 4-year renewable scholarship if the student remains in satisfactory academic standing.

  • May be renewable up to 4 years - must reapply each year in order to be eligible
  • Approximately $72,800 available (which may be split into multiple awards)
Medical Education & Professional Training

Natale Scholarship

Rochester Area Community Foundation
Private
Illinois, Monroe County, New York +1 more
US $7,500 - US $30,000

Mission & Vision

Rochester Area Community Foundation, in partnership with generous philanthropists and community partners, works to improve the quality of life for people who live and work in the eight-county region through its leadership and strategic grantmaking.

Our Mission:

We are cultivating a thriving Greater Rochester region — powered by philanthropy, grounded in community, and sustained across generations.

Our Vision:

We envision a Greater Rochester region transformed by enduring philanthropy, where every person, neighborhood, and future generation can thrive.

Natale Scholarship

Purpose of Scholarship

To provide scholarships to deserving residents of the town of Irondequoit.

Number and Size of Awards

One award of up to $30,000; paid as $7,500 per year for four consecutive years of undergraduate study. Award paid in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters.

Donor Information

This scholarship was created to provide scholarships to deserving residents of the town of Irondequoit to attend the University of Illinois, Rochester Institute of Technology or Niagara University.

Education - Higher Education

Global Perspectives in Teacher Preparation and Teacher Professional Development Grant

Longview Foundation
Private
United States
US $10,000 - US $22,000
The Longview Foundation's Internationalizing Teacher Preparation Grants aim to enhance teachers' global competencies through collaborative projects and online education. Established in 1966, the foundation prioritizes partnerships among institutions and the integration of global perspectives into teacher training. Successful proposals will demonstrate significant outreach, sustainable practices beyond the funding period, and collaboration with state education agencies. Grants range from $10,000 for single institutions to $30,000 for multi-institution initiatives, fostering a broader impact on K-12 education.
Teacher Development & Training

W. M. Keck Research Grant Program

W. M. Keck Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,000,000 - US $1,300,000
The W. M. Keck Foundation's Research Grant Program funds innovative medical research and engineering projects that challenge existing paradigms and explore new territories. Eligible applicants include research universities and independent institutes. Grants support groundbreaking technologies and methodologies, with emphasis on high-risk projects that could lead to transformative impacts. However, funding excludes general operating expenses and grants to individuals. The Foundation awards grants biannually, with an emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches.
Health & Medicine Engineering Science

Mid Atlantic Tours Grants

Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation
Private
Delaware, District of Columbia +8 more
Up to US $2,000
The Mid Atlantic Tours Grants program supports presenters in the mid-Atlantic region who engage Roster Artists during their project periods. Eligible presenters can receive up to a 50% subsidy for artist compensation, which includes fees, housing, and travel. The application process is straightforward and non-competitive, but early engagement with the artist's tour manager is advised due to limited funding. This initiative fosters a diverse range of performances and community engagement.
Performing Arts

Competitive Donor-Advised Funds - Girls with Goals Fund

Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation
Private
Iowa
Up to US $1,000
The Girls with Goals Fund, established by Women Lead Change, aims to empower girls in Iowa from Kindergarten to 8th Grade. This fund supports non-profit organizations that inspire girls to recognize their strengths, celebrate individuality, and stimulate interest in traditionally male-dominated fields. Organizations with 501(c)(3) status are eligible to apply for funding to foster mentorship and leadership skills among young girls, ensuring they have the resources needed for personal and academic growth.
Women & Girl Services

Eo Na Punawai Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Eo Na Punawai Scholarship Fund, established in 2015, aims to support Hawaiian ancestry students pursuing degrees in STEM fields. Eligible applicants must be full-time undergraduate students at a college or university in Hawai‘i, demonstrating financial need with a minimum GPA of 2.5. This fund encourages the growth and education of future leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, fostering a strong community connection to Hawaiian heritage.
STEM / STEAM Education

Mac's Toy Fund

Beckley Area Foundation
Private
Raleigh County, West Virginia
Unspecified amount
Mac's Toy Fund has been a beacon of hope for families in Raleigh County for 93 years, providing essential items like toys, coats, and bikes during Christmas. In 2024, rather than distributing toys directly, the fund will award grants to charitable organizations dedicated to helping low-income children in the area. This initiative ensures that the spirit of giving continues, allowing local groups to directly support families in need during the holiday season.
Poverty Alleviation & Services

VCA Education Impact Grants

Virginia Commission for the Arts
State/Local Government
Virginia
US $1,000 - US $5,000
The VCA Education Impact Grants aim to enhance arts education across Virginia by funding hands-on programs and residencies that engage students and communities. Eligible applicants include Virginia schools and nonprofit organizations, with a focus on professional development for artists and educators. A 1:1 cash match is required for funding, ensuring that projects are sustainable and impactful. This initiative fosters creativity and collaboration, enriching the educational landscape in both traditional and non-traditional settings.
Art Education

Peter H. Brink Leadership Fund

National Trust for Historic Preservation
Private
United States
Up to US $2,500
The Peter H. Brink Leadership Fund, supported by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, aims to enhance the capabilities of preservation organizations through mentoring and organizational development. Grants cover travel and mentor honoraria, fostering collaboration and peer-to-peer learning. Applications are accepted year-round on a rolling basis, prioritizing those who previously applied but did not receive funding. Eligible applicants include Forum members and nonprofit organizations, with a focus on innovative ideas for mentorship opportunities.
Historic Preservation

Pharmacy Residency Excellence Awards: New Preceptor Award

American Society Of Health System Pharmacists Research And Education Foundation (ASHP)
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Pharmacy Residency Excellence Award: New Preceptor Award aims to honor preceptors in their first 3-5 years of residency training who demonstrate excellence and innovation. Established in 2006, the award recognizes individuals who contribute significantly to residency education and serve as role models. Recipients are acknowledged at the ASHP Midyear Clinical Meeting, promoting their achievements widely. This award is part of ASHP's commitment to enhancing pharmacy education and practice.
Pharmacology

Pharmacy Residency Excellence Award: Preceptor Award

American Society Of Health System Pharmacists Research And Education Foundation (ASHP)
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Pharmacy Residency Excellence Award: Preceptor Award recognizes exceptional pharmacy residency preceptors with over ten years of contributions in training and mentoring. Established in 2006, this award promotes innovation and excellence in pharmacy education. Recipients are acknowledged at the ASHP Midyear Clinical Meeting, highlighting their achievements and serving as role models for future preceptors. This award aims to inspire others in the pharmacy field to enhance resident training and support optimal medication use.
Pharmacology

Excellence in Medicine Awards- Courage in Women's Health Advocacy Award

American Medical Association Foundation
Private
United States
US $2,500
The Excellence in Medicine Awards, presented by the AMA Foundation, honor exemplary physicians and medical advocates committed to volunteerism, community engagement, and leadership. Since 2005, this prestigious program has celebrated over 100 honorees, recognizing their vital contributions to underserved populations. Awardees receive a $2,500 grant honorarium to support a nonprofit health organization of their choice, collectively awarding over $250,000 to enhance community health and promote equitable care across the nation.
Health Care Access & Delivery

Scholarships for Opportunity and Results Facilities Grant

District of Columbia Office of the State Superintendent of Education
State/Local Government
District of Columbia
Up to US $750,000
The Scholarships for Opportunity and Results (SOAR) Facilities Grant provides essential funding to public charter schools in the District of Columbia. With a total of $3.5 million available, grants can reach up to $750,000 per award. This program supports renovations aimed at increasing both the capacity and quality of charter school facilities, ensuring that more students have access to high-quality educational environments. Eligible entities are encouraged to submit a Notice of Intent to Apply.
Education - K through 12

Lt. Col. Thomas R. Beam Scholarship

Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge
Private
Virginia
Unspecified amount

Community Foundation: Central Blue Ridge

Proudly serving the independent cities of Staunton and Waynesboro and the counties of Augusta, Highland, and Nelson in Virginia.

Our Mission

To enrich the quality of life by responding to needs and inspiring philanthropy in our community.

Scholarships

Our 2026 Scholarship Program will disburse over $300,000 this year!

Our scholarships support students of all ages (high school seniors, current college students, and adults returning to school) residing in Staunton, Waynesboro, and the counties of Augusta, Highland, and Nelson. 

Only one application is required to be considered for the majority of Community Foundation scholarships.

Lt. Col. Thomas R. Beam Scholarship

The Lt. Col. Thomas R. Beam Scholarship was established through the Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge to support promising students from the Central Shenandoah Valley in pursuing a path of service, leadership, and education at Virginia Tech as members of the Corps of Cadets.

Education - Higher Education

West Wind Fund Grant

Boreal Waters Community Foundation
Private
Bayfield County, Wisconsin
US $500 - US $1,000
The West Wind Fund Grant, provided by the Boreal Waters Community Foundation, aims to support the preservation of historic sites in Bayfield. This grant encourages innovative restoration projects and co-funding partnerships with organizations and individuals. Eligible applicants must be charitable organizations or have a fiscal sponsor, and they should serve the Bayfield community. The fund prioritizes initiatives that include professional consultations, infrastructure repairs, and educational outreach related to local history.
Historic Preservation

Folk and Traditional Arts Community Projects Grant

Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation
Private
Delaware, District of Columbia +7 more
US $1,000 - US $5,000
The Folk and Traditional Arts Community Projects Grant, offered by the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation, supports projects that enhance traditional arts and cultures in the mid-Atlantic region. Non-profit organizations can apply for grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, with a required 1:1 match. Eligible activities include performances, workshops, and public art collaborations, particularly those engaging underrepresented communities. This initiative fosters artistic expression and cultural connection across diverse communities.
Folk Art / Traditional Art

Port Planning & Marketing Fund (OR)

Business Oregon
State/Local Government
Oregon
Up to US $50,000
The Port Planning & Marketing Fund in Oregon provides grants to enhance ports' economic development through strategic business planning and marketing projects. Law mandates that ports must update their business plans every decade to qualify for funding. Grants are limited to $50,000 or 75% of project costs. Priority is given to proposals for updating strategic plans, regional collaborations benefiting multiple ports, and projects that foster economic diversification, job creation, and redevelopment.
Economic Services & Development

The Ganelle Hargrove Cook Scholarship

Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge
Private
United States
US $1,000

Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge

The Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge is a charitable organization that has served the independent cities of Staunton and Waynesboro, and the counties of Augusta, Highland and Nelson since 1992. 

The Ganelle Hargrove Cook Scholarship

The Ganelle Hargrove Cook Scholarship was established in 1999 to provide annual scholarships to deserving individuals residing in Staunton, Waynesboro, and Augusta County who are pursuing a two- or four-year degree. Preference will be given to applicants of Hispanic/Latino heritage. Scholarship recipients are eligible to re-apply annually for up to four years as long as the recipient continues to meet scholarship criteria and funds are available. The intent of the scholarship sponsor is to provide scholarships for Hispanic/Latino individuals.

Education - Higher Education

Oregon Port Revolving Fund (OR)

Business Oregon
State/Local Government
Oregon
Unspecified amount
The Oregon Port Revolving Fund provides essential loans to port districts for the planning and construction of vital infrastructure and facilities. This state program, managed by Business Oregon, supports economic development through responsible investments, allowing ports to finance up to $3 million. Eligible projects include pre-project planning, construction, and maintenance, with flexible repayment terms based on project completion. This initiative underscores the significance of ports in enhancing Oregon's economic landscape.
Economic Services & Development

Saunders Brothers, Inc. Scholarship

Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge

The Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge is a charitable organization that has served the independent cities of Staunton and Waynesboro, and the counties of Augusta, Highland and Nelson since 1992. 

Saunders Brothers, Inc. Scholarship

Saunders Brothers, Inc. is proud to be a premier supplier of superb-quality plant material for garden centers, landscapers, and public gardens throughout the Eastern United States. The Saunders family is excited to offer this scholarship opportunity to all residents of Nelson County, as well as the employees of Saunders Brothers, Inc., and their children and grandchildren.

Description

Established to provide educational scholarship assistance to high school seniors who are Nelson County residents and/or Saunders Brothers, Inc. employees and/or their family members. Candidates for the Scholarship must have demonstrated a desire and passion to pursue higher education. 

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.

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.

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