Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in Maryland

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, government entities, and educational institutions in Maryland can receive in-kind intermodal transportation services and donated railroad equipment to support community service, military, and first responder initiatives. Grants from CSX Foundation help eligible groups in CSX-served communities reduce transportation costs and access rail-related materials for their programs.

Early-stage, impact-first nonprofit and mission-driven for-profit organizations tackling major social or environmental challenges can apply for up to US $300,000 in flexible support, plus intensive capacity-building. Focused on scalable solutions for underserved communities, Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation invites Maryland and other eligible organizations to seek funding once they are post-pilot and operating in priority geographies.

The Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.

Educational institutions, government programs, 501(c)(3) nonprofits, and 501(c)(4) volunteer fire companies in Maryland can seek funding for safety, education, and community development initiatives. Grants from State Farm Companies Foundation help support projects like disaster preparedness, affordable housing, job training, financial literacy, K-12 and higher education, and community revitalization across the U.S.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) cultural institutions with audited expenses over $2 million can apply for William Randolph Hearst Foundation’s culture grants, awarding more than US $100,000 for program, capital, and limited general or endowment support. Maryland arts organizations, museums, and STEAM or arts education programs serving broad audiences may be especially competitive.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Maryland with audited expenses over $2 million that deliver direct social services can seek more than US $100,000 for program, capital, or general support. William Randolph Hearst Foundation prioritizes efforts addressing chronic poverty, including affordable housing, food access, job training, youth development, reentry, and related services across the U.S.

Maryland 501(c)(3) nonprofits focused on health, education, or community services can seek funding for programs such as food pantries, healthcare access, STEM education, and preventive health. Focused on community well-being, Labcorp Charitable Foundation invites U.S.-based organizations to apply for support that advances equitable care, education, and local community initiatives.

Nonprofits and social enterprises serving urban low-income children and youth in education, health, or family economic stability can seek more than US $50,000 for project support or scaling in Maryland and other eligible locations. Michael & Susan Dell Foundation supports organizations whose programs benefit urban children in poverty and align with its values and focus areas.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on early childhood education or community economic development in Maryland can access funding via PNC Foundation to expand programs and services. Grants support early learning for children birth to five, affordable housing, small business assistance, cultural enrichment, and revitalization efforts in low- and moderate-income communities where PNC has a significant presence.

Nonprofit organizations and accredited charities in humanitarian, education, community development, environment, and contemporary arts can seek philanthropic project support, including Maryland affiliates, through La Roche’s corporate donations program. Grants from La Roche help organizations worldwide implement innovative, sustainable initiatives that engage local partners and employees and leverage the company’s expertise and logistics capabilities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Maryland seeking support for charitable, educational, scientific, or medical programs that operate within the U.S. may be eligible for this funding. Grants from Sidney Stern Memorial Trust help organizations with strong management and broad community impact advance projects that materially improve general welfare and serve substantial target populations.

The Stantec Community Engagement Grant is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in communities where Stantec operates. Focused on arts, education, environment, and health and wellness, the grant supports initiatives that foster sustainable development and responsible practices. Organizations seeking funding must align with Stantec's values, emphasizing ethical practices and community impact. Preference is given to projects located near Stantec offices, ensuring a more significant local impact through their contributions.

The Audacious Project Grant Program, supported by TED, aims to catalyze social impact by funding bold solutions to pressing global challenges. This initiative encourages changemakers to develop transformative ideas into actionable plans, with a focus on various issues, including health and education. The program operates on a rolling basis, welcoming applications from individuals and organizations with a proven track record and a budget of at least $2 million. Join us in creating lasting change for a better world.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

The Zegar Family Foundation Grant, established in 2007, focuses on improving lives through impactful charitable donations. The foundation prioritizes areas such as environment, justice, human rights, science, education, and community development. While unsolicited proposals are not accepted, the foundation remains open to innovative ideas that align with its mission. Through targeted support, it aims to create lasting positive change in communities and promote social equity.

Focused on education, environment, entrepreneurship, and community enrichment, Georgia-Pacific Foundation invites Maryland 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and eligible government entities to apply for community-focused project support. Organizations must be within 30 miles of a Georgia-Pacific manufacturing community and serve areas where the company operates, which may include parts of Maryland.

Middendorf Foundation Inc

The Middendorf Foundation was founded in 1953 by J. William Jr. and Alice Carter Middendorf to support institutions and projects in their areas of interest within the State of Maryland. Their focus included: education, healthcare, social services, the environment, historic preservation and arts & culture. During their lifetimes, Mr. & Mrs. Middendorf provided inspirational leadership to the Foundation. Upon their deaths, the Foundation received generous bequests, which allowed it to begin making more sizable grants on a regular basis. Current assets are valued at $60 million.

In 2018, upon the death of their last surviving child, Alice Carter Middendorf, the Foundation received another large bequest which has further strengthened its ability to support causes of interest to the Middendorfs. Today the Foundation is governed by trustees who are honored to safeguard the legacy of the Middendorfs. 

Middendorf Foundation Historic Preservation Grants

The Middendorf Foundation has long recognized the importance of preserving historic buildings and sites and has supported those who believe in the preservation of Maryland’s cultural heritage. The Foundation is committed to preserving sites of historical significance so that they will continue to be enjoyed by a broad public well into the future.

The Foundation prioritizes one-time costs such as capital campaigns for building, equipment, and/or technology with the lifespan of 7+ years. 

Maryland nonprofits, schools, public agencies, and community groups can seek funding to deliver environmental education and build environmental literacy for students. Focused on environmental education, Chesapeake Bay Trust invites Maryland organizations to implement Meaningful Watershed Educational Experiences or district-wide literacy capacity-building projects, with awards up to US $120,000 across eligible multi-year initiatives.

Maryland 501(c)(3) nonprofits seeking more than US $1,000 for community programs can apply for corporate giving support from the Perdue Foundation. Funding can support agriculture and environmental initiatives, education, hunger and poverty relief, health and social services, public safety, and cultural and heritage programs in communities where Perdue associates live and work.

J.B. Hunt Transport Services offers financial support for various community projects through its Company Giving program. Focused on four key areas—Health Care, Veterans' Support, Education, and Crisis Management—this initiative aims to enhance the well-being of local communities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and civic groups, while organizations that primarily benefit their members or have high management overhead may be excluded. The program underscores J.B. Hunt's commitment to corporate social responsibility.

With a mission to strengthen communities, Ameriprise Financial provides Maryland nonprofits addressing basic needs, community vitality, or volunteer-driven causes with competitive funding. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations working on hunger relief, shelter and supportive housing, adult self-sufficiency, community development, or cultural enrichment in the U.S. may apply, with preference for strong Ameriprise volunteer engagement.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Maryland working on youth education, family services, food insecurity, housing, or environmental stewardship can apply for Chick Fil A Foundation’s True Inspiration Awards, with grants of US $30,000 - US $350,000. Programs serving underserved young people and their families across these focus areas may be competitive.

The TD Charitable Foundation has been dedicated to improving community quality of life since 2002, contributing over $254 million to non-profit organizations. They fund initiatives aligned with their corporate citizenship goals, focusing on Better Health, Connected Communities, Financial Security, and Vibrant Planet. Special consideration is given to programs that support inclusivity for diverse and historically underserved communities. Their commitment to enhancing lives through targeted grants reflects their core values and social responsibility.

Nonprofit organizations in Maryland with strong, replicable community partnerships can apply for Mutual of America Foundation’s national Community Partnership Award, which honors exemplary cross-sector collaborations. Eligible U.S. nonprofits demonstrating measurable social impact and effective public, private, or social sector partnerships may be recognized for their leadership and innovative approaches to significant social issues.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) and 509(a) public charities in Maryland can request Delaplaine Foundation support for projects in cultural arts, education, health, human services, historic preservation, and spiritual enrichment. Priority goes to initiatives, especially in Frederick County, that show measurable community impact, long-term benefits, and diversified funding beyond the foundation’s contribution.