Best Grants for Community Service Projects in Maryland

Businesses and nonprofits rehabilitating eligible former state or federal facilities in Maryland can access a Catalytic Revitalization Tax Credit to support community development projects with an emphasis on affordable housing. Grants from Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development help Maryland community development and revitalization efforts transform unused colleges, schools, hospitals, mental health, or military facilities into community assets.

Tax-exempt nonprofits and local governments in Maryland can seek funding for collaborative projects that improve community safety through lighting, camera surveillance, and related services. Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development supports community development and public safety with grants ranging from US $35,000 to US $100,000 for efforts that address illegal and dangerous activities.

501(c)(3) nonprofits working on basic needs, income creation, stable housing, or empowered communities in Maryland can apply for Bank of America Charitable Foundation’s Stable Housing and Empowering Communities grants. Funding supports economic mobility and community development for vulnerable populations in eligible local markets across the state, including low- and moderate-income communities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations running community service, family support, or public safety projects in Maryland and other serviced states can receive up to US $500 for specific programs. Grants from Baltimore Life Foundation help groups with strong volunteer bases fund home-grown initiatives like child safety education, community clean-ups, and neighborhood watch activities.

Nonprofit organizations and local governments in Maryland can apply for Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development’s Operating Assistance Grant, awarding up to US $50,000 for operating costs that support community and economic revitalization. Funding can cover salaries, professional services, technology, and other administrative expenses for Main Street and community development initiatives.

501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in Maryland can access Community Investment Tax Credits to support community development and revitalization projects in designated Priority Funding Areas. Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development provides up to US $10,000 in tax credit allocations to help nonprofits attract individual and business contributions for local community service initiatives.

Fund for change provides Maryland community organizations with funding for systems change, community organizing, and advocacy efforts. Grants from US $10,000 - US $25,000 support work in housing and community development, behavioral health and healing, criminal justice reform, and environmental justice. Groups leading community service projects that organize underserved residents and influence policymakers may be eligible.

Nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and fiscally sponsored projects in Maryland focused on community development and related services can receive up to US $10,000 for Baltimore City programs, including seed funding, operations, and capital needs. With a mission to strengthen Baltimore communities, Abell Foundation provides flexible small grants across seven core program areas on a rolling basis.

Maryland 501(c)(3) nonprofits, government entities, and public or charter schools with community service or development projects near the Norfolk Southern network can seek funding for sustainability, workforce development, and resiliency initiatives. Grants from Norfolk Southern Foundation’s Thriving Communities Program range from US $1,000 - US $50,000 for specific projects, not general operating support.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) public charities running community development, education, or rural vitality projects in Maryland can apply for US $1,000 - US $20,000 to strengthen local resources and opportunities. With a mission to serve rural communities, Land O'Lakes Foundation provides funding for programs like ag education, city improvements, economic development, and first responder support in its dairy member regions.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with three years of history and $100,000+ budgets in Maryland communities served by RBC Wealth Management can seek funding for workforce skills, inclusive prosperity, or environmental sustainability programs. RBC Foundation USA supports efforts like job readiness and youth development that may strengthen local community service and development projects.

The Community Services and Enrichment Grant, provided by the City of Rockville, aims to support local nonprofit organizations that enhance community services and enrichment programs for city residents and visitors. This grant combines previous funding initiatives to streamline support for organizations dedicated to improving the quality of life within the corporate limits of Rockville. Eligible applicants must provide essential human services and enrichment programs that benefit the community.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits and fiscally sponsored projects can receive funding for financial literacy, vibrant community initiatives, and technology education programs, including work in Maryland. Affirm Cares provides support for efforts addressing housing insecurity, homelessness, civic engagement, neighborhood revitalization, small business development, and K–12 technology access through sustainable, scalable projects with measurable impact.

Registered Canadian or U.S. charities and nonprofit organizations running programs in Maryland can apply for BMO Financial Group’s BMO Gives funding to support community-focused work. Grants may benefit projects in community development, financial literacy, workforce readiness, environmental sustainability, health, arts, and related life-skills or social services that strengthen local communities.

Nonprofits, TDHEs, and federally recognized tribes working on rural affordable housing or community development in Maryland can receive direct technical assistance to build capacity and strengthen programs. With a mission to support rural development, Housing Assistance Council provides customized one-on-one guidance, training, and resources to help organizations implement best practices and design activities that meet local needs.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations running housing, skilled trades, clean water, or community revitalization projects in Maryland may be eligible for support from Ferguson Cares. Grants from Ferguson help strengthen U.S. communities within its business footprint, so Maryland groups should confirm they operate in an eligible county before applying.

Focused on community development, Enhearten Unseen Leaders invites U.S. nonprofit staff and volunteers to seek micro grants of US $500 - US $1,000 for new or expanded community-uplifting projects. Maryland organizations serving local communities may be eligible if a specific, substantial project component can be completed and reported within the grant guidelines.

Nonprofit organizations providing youth services, housing, social services, veteran support, or civic and community programs can apply for St. Marys Bank Charitable Foundation’s community support grants, awarding US $500 - US $5,000. Groups in areas like Manchester and southern New Hampshire may be eligible, and Maryland community service organizations could look to similar community-focused priorities.

Nonprofit organizations running community development, social services, youth, housing, or financial independence programs in Maryland can apply for project-based support, with awards from US $500 - US $5,000. St. Marys Bank Charitable Foundation’s 1908 Funds back one-time or special-need activities that help individuals and families move toward economic self-sufficiency.

Maryland charitable organizations and local municipal entities running specific community or education programs can apply for MathWorks Community Grants, offering US $200 - US $5,000 for one-year projects. Community development, STEM education, mentoring, environmental stewardship, disaster relief, and related service initiatives near MathWorks office communities may be eligible, with one application per program each year.

The Horizon Bank Community Grant Program aims to enhance local communities by funding initiatives in education, arts, and economic development. With grants starting at $5,000, the program supports 501(c)(3) organizations addressing housing needs for low- to moderate-income families. Applications are accepted annually, with a strong emphasis on corporate citizenship and community involvement. However, grants are not available for political activities or organizations that discriminate. This commitment reflects Horizon Bank's dedication to fostering community growth and responsibility.

The Justamere Foundation focuses on removing barriers to self-sufficiency by supporting innovative community programs. They prioritize four key areas: trade education, veterans resources, childhood literacy, and arts education. By providing grants and non-traditional scholarships, the foundation aims to empower individuals and create lasting change. Their mission is to connect underserved communities with essential resources, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

The Community Empowerment Matching Grant, offered by the City of Rockville, supports collaborative efforts among neighbors and organizations to enhance community health and inclusivity. Grants range from $500 to $1,000 and require matching funds through cash, donations, or volunteer hours. Projects should focus on building community, improving shared spaces, or fostering livability initiatives. Awardees must document project outcomes and provide visual evidence of their efforts, promoting a vibrant and diverse Rockville community.

The Lockhart Vaughan Foundation focuses on supporting 501(c)(3) organizations in Baltimore, Maryland, with a commitment to education, environment, and community development. Established in 1990, the foundation aims to enhance public education access, promote environmental sustainability, and foster vibrant neighborhoods through strategic grant-making. Applicants must submit a contact information form before applying, with an upcoming deadline for summer learning grants on February 20. The foundation prioritizes impactful initiatives that align with its goals.

The Lockhart Vaughan Foundation, established in 1990, provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations in Baltimore, focusing on education, environment, and community development. New applicants must submit a Letter of Intent to outline their goals. The Foundation emphasizes childhood literacy, environmental improvements, and vibrant neighborhoods while prioritizing programs that foster high expectations and prevent summer learning loss. Eligible organizations should align with these strategic goals to secure funding.

The Sachs Family Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for economically and educationally disadvantaged individuals and families. The Foundation supports self-sustaining charitable organizations focusing on economic and educational opportunities, particularly in low-income communities in the U.S. and developing countries. Grants are available for various initiatives, including education, housing, and job training, with a keen interest in programs that demonstrate clear potential for sustainability.

The Santander Charitable Sponsorship Program focuses on supporting low- to moderate-income communities primarily in the Northeast and Florida. With a commitment of $100 million in charitable giving, the program addresses key community development needs, including affordable housing, job creation, financial education, and disaster relief. Eligible organizations must have IRS 501(c)(3) status or be public agencies, demonstrating capacity to meet community needs. Unsolicited applications are not accepted.