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Best Literacy Grants for Nonprofits
Explore literacy grants supporting early reading, adult education, ESL programs, and community literacy initiatives
100+
Available grants
$56.5M
Total funding
$17K
Median grant
100+
grants
$56.5M
total
$17K
median
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Unspecified amount
George and Sarah Buchanan Foundation Grants
Rolling deadline
The George and Sarah Buchanan Foundation provides grants to support charitable organizations focusing on military, special needs, at-risk youth, education, and faith-based initiatives. By partnering with 501(c)(3) organizations, the foundation aims to enhance programs that create positive change in communities. Their funding priorities include providing essential services to military families, advocating for individuals with disabilities, and ensuring educational access for all. Through these efforts, they strive to uplift communities and improve the lives of those in need.
George And Sarah Buchanan Foundation
Unspecified amount
Gilead North America Grants
Rolling deadline
Gilead North America Grants support community-informed programs that enhance healthcare for vulnerable populations. Grants are available for innovative projects addressing HIV, liver diseases, oncology, and inflammatory diseases. Applications are invited from tax-exempt nonprofits based in the U.S. who focus on health equity and community engagement. Gilead prioritizes funding for projects that demonstrate a strong capability to deliver impactful outcomes, helping to eliminate barriers to healthcare and improve access to essential services.
Gilead Sciences, Inc.
Unspecified amount
Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants
Rolling deadline
State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.
State Farm Companies Foundation
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Up to US $25,000
Mckesson Foundation Grant: below $25,000
Rolling deadline
The McKesson Foundation Grant provides funding up to $25,000 for organizations focused on improving health outcomes in underserved communities. Established in 1943, the foundation prioritizes health equity through strategic partnerships aimed at reducing cancer burdens, preparing healthcare professionals, and enhancing crisis response efforts. Eligible applicants include national and local nonprofits targeting specific regions in the U.S. and Canada. The foundation emphasizes projects that align with its mission and demonstrate significant community impact.
McKesson Foundation
US $500 - US $5,000
National Home Library Foundation Grant
Rolling deadline
The National Home Library Foundation Grant supports nonprofits in distributing books and reading materials to libraries and community groups with limited resources. This initiative aims to promote literacy and combat illiteracy among all ages through various programs. Grants are available only to tax-exempt organizations that adhere to non-discrimination policies. Preference is given to requests from the Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia areas, with applications considered on a rolling basis.
National Home Library Foundation
Unspecified amount
OneAmerica Financial: Community grant
Rolling deadline
The OneAmerica Financial Community grant supports 501(c)(3) organizations focused on education, workforce development, safety, wellness, and community vibrancy. With a commitment to making a difference, OneAmerica aims to transform lives through strategic philanthropy. Their initiatives include disaster relief, arts support, and civic engagement, fostering resilient communities. By investing in meaningful change, they build a foundation for shared success across the country, ensuring that community needs are met and future generations thrive.
OneAmerica Financial
Unspecified amount
PMIEF Grants
Rolling deadline
PMIEF Grants support nonprofit organizations that empower youth aged 14-24 through project management skills. These grants enhance internal capacity-building and incorporate project management into existing programs. By offering financial assistance and expertise, PMIEF aims to develop young people's skills in areas like leadership and entrepreneurship. Nonprofits are encouraged to work closely with PMIEF to create innovative programs that promote the success of youth through project management, fostering essential skills for their future.
Project Management Institute
Unspecified amount
Rauch Foundation Grant
Rolling deadline
The Rauch Foundation Grant focuses on promoting systemic change through innovative approaches in global food systems and financial literacy for students. By partnering with various organizations, including nonprofits and educational institutions, the foundation aims to create significant impacts on community health and economic preparedness. Their work emphasizes evidence-based research and collaboration, particularly in addressing environmental concerns and enhancing financial education among the youth.
Rauch Foundation Inc
Up to US $25,000
Richard Donchian Foundation Grants
Rolling deadline
The Richard Davoud Donchian Foundation supports nonprofit organizations that empower individuals and communities through character development, literacy, and ethical practices. Their focus is on enhancing personal integrity and fostering leadership within education, humanitarian efforts, and personal development. The foundation encourages innovative programs and partnerships that yield long-term benefits, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and effective management in achieving meaningful impact. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status to apply.
The Richard Davoud Donchian Foundation
US $1,000 - US $15,000
Starseed Foundation Grant
Rolling deadline
The Starseed Foundation Grant offers support to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on enhancing the arts, environmental protection, literacy, and social services. Grants are available to organizations throughout the United States, with a specific emphasis on programs based in Oregon. Interested parties must first submit a Letter of Inquiry to be considered for funding. This initiative aims to improve the quality of life for underserved communities through cultural and educational enrichment.
Starseed Foundation
US $1,000 - US $10,000
The Affirm Cares Employee Foundation Grant
Rolling deadline
The Affirm Cares Employee Foundation Grant, established by Affirm, aims to support non-profit organizations making a significant impact in financial literacy, community enrichment, and technology education. Grants range from $1,000 to $10,000, focusing on sustainable initiatives that empower communities and alleviate housing insecurity. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) designated non-profits operating within the U.S. The foundation prioritizes measurable outcomes in its funding efforts, fostering civic engagement and vibrant communities.
Affirm Cares
US $300 - US $500
Store-Based Giving Program Grant
Applications due Jun 26, 2026
The Store-Based Giving Program by Ross Stores Foundation supports socioeconomically disadvantaged youth by providing gift cards for school or professional clothing. Organizations must be federal tax-exempt and serve at least 60% low-income youth. Eligible programs include academic achievement and life skills initiatives. Award amounts typically range from $300 to $500, depending on budget and mission alignment. Applications are not accepted from organizations that have received donations within the past 12 months.
Ross Stores Foundation
Up to US $6,000
Literacy Opportunity Fund
Applications due Jul 1, 2026
The Literacy Opportunity Fund, supported by the Nora Roberts Foundation and administered by ProLiteracy, provides grants ranging from $3,000 to $6,000 to nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that directly serve students with literacy programs. This initiative aims to enhance the operational capabilities of diverse literacy organizations, allowing them to effectively meet student needs. Applications are reviewed quarterly, ensuring timely support for eligible organizations that have not received funding within the calendar year.
ProLiteracy
Up to US $55,000
JWF Chicago Multiyear Grants
Full proposal due Aug 5, 2026
The JWF Chicago Multiyear Grants program supports initiatives aimed at empowering Jewish women and girls through strategic funding. With a focus on social change, it offers three-year grants up to $20,000 in the first two years and $15,000 in the third. Eligible organizations must demonstrate a commitment to Jewish women's needs, fostering leadership, economic security, and well-being. The program seeks innovative projects that can create a lasting impact in the community, ensuring support for diverse initiatives across the globe.
Jewish United Fund Of Metropolitan Chicago
US $15,000 - US $25,000
Sociological Initiatives Foundation Grant
Letter of inquiry due Aug 15, 2026
The Sociological Initiatives Foundation Grant supports research linking social action to addressing systemic inequalities in the U.S., funding projects that tackle racism, classism, and human rights violations. It prioritizes initiatives that foster partnerships between academia and community organizations, aiming to enhance advocacy and public knowledge. Grants typically range from $15 to $25,000, emphasizing research with tangible community impacts rather than mere reporting. The Foundation seeks projects that can fundamentally change societal structures and improve equity.
Sociological Initiatives Foundation Inc.
US $10,000 - US $25,000
Kazanjian Economics Foundation Grant
Letter of inquiry due Sep 10, 2026
The Kazanjian Economics Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing economic literacy across various educational settings. With a history of over 70 years, the foundation supports projects that deliver economic education to youth, particularly in non-school environments. It emphasizes teacher training and initiatives for underserved communities, while also promoting behavioral economics and entrepreneurship. The foundation welcomes letters of interest year-round, with recommended deadlines of March 10th and September 10th for grant cycles.
Calvin K. Kazanjian Economics Foundation
US $80,000 - US $100,000
Chapman Prize
Applications due Sep 30, 2026
The Chapman Prize, established by the Daniel and Barbara Chapman Trust, honors individuals and organizations making significant contributions to American society. Each year, the award focuses on a theme; in 2025, it will spotlight Economic Prosperity. Eligible applicants include U.S. citizens and nonprofits with three years of charitable work demonstrating impact in the chosen field. Approximately $100,000 will be awarded annually to support endeavors that enhance economic prosperity through various initiatives.
Daniel and Barbara Chapman Trust
Unspecified amount
BMO Gives
Applications due Sep 30, 2026
BMO Gives is committed to fostering positive societal impact through community support and charitable initiatives. It focuses on enhancing community and economic resilience, as well as environmental sustainability. Eligible applicants must be registered charities or non-profits operating in Canada or the U.S. and align with BMO's corporate values, which promote inclusivity and non-discrimination. The program aims to support projects that address significant societal needs and empower local communities.
BMO Financial Group
Unspecified amount
OpenAI A People-First AI Fund
Applications due Oct 9, 2026
The OpenAI A People-First AI Fund supports U.S.-based nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status, focusing on AI literacy, community innovation, and economic opportunity. It aims to enhance public understanding of AI, promote participatory design in AI applications by communities, and expand access to meaningful work through inclusive practices. Organizations at all stages of AI adoption are encouraged to apply, especially those addressing the needs of traditionally marginalized populations. This initiative emphasizes equitable distribution of AI benefits.
Openai Inc
Unspecified amount
Domtar Community Investment Grant
Applications due Nov 30, 2026
The Domtar Community Investment Grant supports nonprofits and charities in areas where the company operates, focusing on education, environmental sustainability, and community humanitarian needs. Eligible organizations include charitable groups, while ineligible entities encompass individuals, discriminatory organizations, and political causes. Applications are accepted online from January 1 to November 30, with reviews conducted bi-monthly. This initiative aims to create meaningful connections between charitable efforts and the social benefits derived from Domtar's business operations.
Domtar
US $200,000 - US $22,000,000
Title X Family Planning Services Grants
Applications due Jan 9, 2027
The Title X Family Planning Services Grants support diverse projects aimed at providing essential family planning services across the United States and its territories. With an anticipated funding of up to $257 million, these grants will empower low-income and uninsured individuals by enhancing health literacy and access to reproductive health services. The program emphasizes informed decision-making and addresses gaps in reproductive knowledge, ultimately promoting better health outcomes for millions of Americans.
US Dept. of Health & Human Services: Office of Population Affairs
US $25,000 - US $200,000
Creating Opportunity & Independence Grant
Letter of inquiry due Jan 26, 2027
The Craig H. Neilsen Foundation's Creating Opportunity & Independence Grant supports programs and research that enhance the quality of life for individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI). It welcomes applications from nonprofit organizations and rehabilitation facilities in the U.S. and Canada, focusing on projects that foster independence, community participation, and capacity-building. Priority is given to initiatives that demonstrate broad impact and involve individuals with SCI, ensuring their needs and perspectives shape the proposed activities.
Craig H. Neilsen Foundation
US $500 - US $2,000 in in-kind support
National Book Fund Grant
Applications due Mar 3, 2027
The National Book Fund (NBF) offers grants to support adult education and literacy programs across the U.S. by providing New Readers Press materials. Grants typically range from $500 to $2,000, with applications considered for higher amounts if justified. Eligible applicants must have a defined project and use materials directly with learners. Priority is given to nonprofit organizations providing free literacy instruction. Note that individuals and lending libraries are not eligible for funding.
ProLiteracy
Up to US $25,000
AARP Community Challenge Grant: Flagship Grant
Applications due Mar 4, 2027
The AARP Community Challenge Grant supports projects that enhance community living for residents aged 50 and older. With a focus on immediate improvements and long-term progress, grants range from $10,000 to $25,000, covering areas like public spaces, transportation, and digital literacy. Since 2017, AARP has awarded over $20.1 million through more than 1,700 grants across the U.S. Eligible organizations include nonprofits and government entities committed to serving the needs of older adults.
AARP Foundation
Up to US $40,000
Apraxia Kids Research Grants: Clinical Research Grant
Letter of inquiry due Mar 31, 2027
The Apraxia Kids Clinical Research Grant, offered by the Childhood Apraxia of Speech Association of North America, supports innovative research on childhood apraxia of speech. With awards up to $50,000, the grant aims to promote studies that enhance early diagnosis, treatment methods, and understanding of the effects of apraxia on children. This initiative encourages collaboration between researchers and individuals with lived experience, ensuring research relevance and community engagement in addressing CAS challenges.
Childhood Apraxia of Speech Association of North America
Unspecified amount
O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant
Applications due Apr 15, 2027
The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.
O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Inc
More than US $25,000
McKesson Foundation Grant: above $25,000
Applications due Apr 30, 2027
The McKesson Foundation Grant provides funding above $25,000 to support health equity initiatives across North America. Founded in 1943, its mission focuses on removing barriers to quality healthcare for vulnerable communities. The foundation prioritizes projects that align with strategic pillars: reducing cancer burdens, preparing the healthcare workforce, and enhancing crisis response. Eligible organizations include national and local nonprofits. Funding is limited to specific regions and assessed based on demonstrated need and expected impact.
McKesson Foundation
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Sign up to see the full listLiteracy Grants for Nonprofits Highlights
Literacy grants for nonprofits fund programs that promote reading, writing, and educational access for all ages. The following grants help organizations address literacy disparities, provide learning resources, and empower communities through education.
Search Instrumentl's Literacy Grants Database
Explore 100+ funding opportunities for literacy initiatives, with $56.5M in resources. Instrumentl connects nonprofits to tailored grants, offering tools for tracking deadlines, customized searches, and insights to advance literacy education.
Top Searched Literacy Grants for Nonprofits
Grant Insights : Literacy Grants for Nonprofits
Grant Availability
How common are grants in this category?
Common — grants in this category appear regularly across funding sources.
100+ Literacy grants for nonprofits grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.
45 Literacy grants for nonprofits over $25K in average grant size
37 Literacy grants for nonprofits over $50K in average grant size
23 Literacy grants for nonprofits supporting general operating expenses
100+ Literacy grants for nonprofits supporting programs / projects
300+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Financial Literacy
400+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Literacy
Grant Deadline Distribution
Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Literacy grants for Nonprofits?
Most grants are due in the first quarter.
Q1
34.7%
Q2
21.9%
Q3
25.7%
Q4
17.7%
Frequently asked questions
Nonprofits promoting reading, writing, and educational access are eligible for literacy grants. This includes organizations that run childhood programs, offer adult education, or work with schools and libraries to encourage people to read. Funders may prioritize groups serving low-income communities, students who struggle with reading, or adults who need literacy support to improve their job opportunities.
Grants in literacy typically have the highest concentration of deadlines in Q1, with 34.7% 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.
The main goal of literacy grants is to improve reading skills and make books more accessible. These grants support programs that close education gaps, help children succeed in school, and provide adults with the literacy skills they need for their careers. Some funders focus on childhood education, ensuring kids develop strong reading habits early. Others support adult literacy programs to help people gain independence and improve job prospects. Whether it's funding after-school tutoring, expanding library programs, or providing books to underserved communities, literacy grants are designed to create long-term educational impact.
On average, grants in literacy provide funding between $50 and $19,910,496, with typical awards falling around $17,000 (median) and $642,280 (average). These insights can help nonprofits align their funding requests with what grantmakers typically offer in this space.
Literacy grants are typically funded by government groups like the Department of Education to improve literacy in schools and communities. Private foundations such as the Dollar General Literacy Foundation support programs as well. Companies with an interest in education, publishing, or community development also fund literacy grants as part of their corporate social responsibility programs.
To improve the chances of getting literacy grants, nonprofits should:
- Show proof of literacy gaps – Use data and examples to show how your community faces literacy challenges.
- Explain your program’s impact – Describe how your initiative helps improve literacy, using past successes or intended outcomes.
- Build partnerships and align with their goals – Connect with schools, libraries, and community organizations to increase impact. Aligning with local, state, or national education goals may also improve chances of receiving a literary grant.
Want to improve your grant prospecting strategy? Master the process with our detailed guide to grant prospect research.
Instrumentl simplifies the process of applying for literary grants by offering an intuitive platform that helps nonprofits discover relevant funding opportunities, track deadlines, and analyze funder-giving patterns. The platform's automated alerts ensure users never miss a deadline, while detailed funder insights help organizations tailor their applications to align with grantor priorities.
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