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Best Private Grants for Nonprofits

Explore private grants for nonprofits funding programs in education, health, community development, and the arts.

33,000+

Available grants

$8.25B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

33,000+ grants
$8.25B total
$6K median

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32,595 Results based on applied filters

FFAR Fellows: Stipend + Professional Development Category

Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research (FFAR)
Private
Canada, United States
Up to US $148,500
The FFAR Fellows Program offers professional development and leadership training for PhD students in food and agriculture sciences across the U.S. and Canada. Led by North Carolina State University, the program includes in-person meetings, virtual sessions, and mentorship opportunities. Students receive a combined stipend of $65,000 annually, with a minimum of 50% sponsorship from non-academic sources. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, career exploration beyond academia, and the development of essential skills for future leaders in the field.
Agriculture

Regional Site Readiness Program- Site Readiness Planning in Edwardsville

Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity
State/Local Government
Madison County, Illinois
Approximately US $100,809
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is launching the Regional Site Readiness Program to enhance infrastructure for 150 acres of industrial property in Gallatin County. This initiative aims to attract private investments and create new job opportunities in industrial sectors. Eligible entities include special units of government focused on maintaining ports and terminals. Grants will be awarded on a reimbursement basis to ensure effective use of funds and promote economic growth in the region.
Economic Services & Development

FHF Emergency Grant

Floyd Hooker Foundation
Private
Tioga County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The FHF Emergency Grant, offered by the Floyd Hooker Foundation, supports tax-exempt organizations in Tioga County facing urgent needs due to unforeseen events. This grant aims to address immediate financial challenges while prioritizing projects that benefit local children. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, government entities, and educational institutions. Successful applications must demonstrate that the crisis was beyond their control and that funding is critical for the well-being of the community's children.
Youth Services

The Dayton Legal Heritage Foundation Fund Grant

The Dayton Foundation
Private
Darke County, Ohio, Greene County, Ohio +4 more
Unspecified amount
The Dayton Legal Heritage Foundation Fund Grant aims to enhance legal practices in the Greater Dayton area by funding nonprofit organizations that promote legal knowledge and justice awareness. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations with a proven track record, demonstrate diversity and collaboration, and address unmet community needs. The foundation prioritizes projects that optimize community resources, test innovative solutions, and encourage volunteer engagement. This grant represents a commitment to improving legal services for all citizens in the region.
Legal Services

Tree Campus Higher Education Program: Alabama

National Arbor Day Foundation
Private
Alabama
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, led by the National Arbor Day Foundation, empowers colleges to cultivate vibrant green spaces while enhancing student well-being. By meeting five essential standards, campuses can achieve recognition for their commitment to sustainability. This initiative not only fosters environmental stewardship but also promotes mental health and physical activity among students, creating a healthier campus environment. Join the movement to enhance your campus and community through tree planting and care.
Greening & Beautification

American Surgical Association: Surgical Leaders Fellowship Grant

American Surgical Association
Private
United States
US $5,000
The American Surgical Association's Surgical Leaders Fellowship Grant aims to develop future academic surgical leaders while promoting diversity in leadership roles. The program includes shadowing experiences and skill development, allowing fellows to assess their readiness for leadership positions in surgery. Each fellowship provides $5,000 in funding for visits to two academic institutions, enhancing professional growth through mentorship with established leaders in the field.
Surgery

Economic Development Grants

City of Houston
State/Local Government
Houston County, Texas
Unspecified amount
The Economic Development Grants offered by the City of Houston aim to stimulate business and commercial activity by providing financial assistance to eligible public, private, and nonprofit organizations. This program facilitates a structured application process, involving multiple stages of assessment and collaboration with city departments to ensure alignment with local initiatives. By investing public funds into viable projects, the city fosters economic growth and development, ultimately benefiting the community and enhancing local infrastructure.
Economic Services & Development

SUS: Mid Career Award

Society of University Surgeons
Private
Canada, United States
US $40,000
The SUS Mid Career Award offers $40,000 for one year to SUS members in the US or Canada with prior research funding, supporting their ongoing work in surgical sciences. Eligible applicants must have experience as a principal investigator on independent or smaller grants, or hold a career development award. This award serves as bridge funding for those who have recently applied for independent grants but were not funded, fostering continued research and innovation.
Surgery

Conservation License Plate Grant Program - "Moose" Plate Grants

New Hampshire Division of Historical Resources
State/Local Government
New Hampshire
Up to US $20,000
The New Hampshire Division of Historical Resources offers the Conservation License Plate Grant Program, which provides grants up to $20,000 for the preservation of historically significant public resources. Funded by the sale of the 'Moose Plate' license plates, these grants support projects that meet specific preservation standards and aim to protect New Hampshire's cultural heritage. Eligible projects include the conservation of historic buildings, archaeological sites, and other publicly owned historic resources.
Historic Preservation

Colorado Masons Benevolent Fund Association: Scholarships Program

Colorado Masons Benevolent Fund Association
Private
Colorado
Up to US $28,000
The Colorado Masons Benevolent Fund Association provides scholarships to graduating seniors from Colorado public high schools, aiming to support their pursuit of higher education. Established in 1966, the program has awarded over $15 million in scholarships, typically amounting to $7,000 per year for up to four years. Eligible students must demonstrate leadership and academic ability, while the selection process is overseen by a knowledgeable committee. The fund also offers vocational grants for education at Colorado institutions.
Education - Higher Education

Trees for Texans - Trees For Communities Grant

Texan By Nature
Private
Atascosa County, Texas, Bastrop County, Texas +38 more
US $5,000
The Trees for Texans - Trees For Communities Grant, in partnership with Texan by Nature and H-E-B, fosters community engagement through tree-planting initiatives across Texas. By offering $5,000 grants to eligible nonprofits and municipalities, this program aims to enhance urban environments, promote sustainability, and improve public spaces. Projects must be publicly accessible and demonstrate a measurable impact on local ecology, ensuring a greener future for generations to come. Together, we can cultivate healthier communities and environments.
Greening & Beautification

Drug Discovery Postdoctoral Fellowship

Pharmaceutical Research And Manufacturers Of America Fnd Inc (PhRMA)
Private
United States
Up to US $120,000
The Drug Discovery Postdoctoral Fellowship by the PhRMA Foundation supports researchers in a multidisciplinary training program at accredited U.S. universities. Aimed at enhancing credentials in drug discovery, it funds innovative research with potential human applications. Proposals should focus on biological validation of drug targets across various scientific disciplines. The fellowship provides $60,000 in annual stipend support for up to 24 months, contingent on the awardee's continued employment at the university.
Pharmacology

Tree Campus Higher Education Program: Kansas

National Arbor Day Foundation
Private
Kansas
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Tree Campus Higher Education Program by the Arbor Day Foundation promotes the importance of trees on college campuses, enhancing both the environment and student well-being. It provides universities with a framework to achieve recognition for their commitment to campus tree care and community engagement. By fostering green spaces, the program not only improves campus aesthetics but also contributes to energy savings and the mental health of students, while educating future generations about environmental stewardship.
Greening & Beautification

Sally Bertina Meyer Scholarship

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation

Founded in 1984, we are a 501(c)(3) public charity. Today, we manage more than 1,000 charitable funds, serving as the trusted stewards for more than $390 million in assets.

Our Community Investment team works with local nonprofits, schools and community leaders to identify gaps, assess critical needs and explore opportunities and possibilities. Our Philanthropy team works with individuals, families, advisors, businesses, and nonprofits, offering deep and broad experience and expertise in philanthropic strategy, charitable and organizational endowments, and legacy planning.

Scholarship Opportunities

The Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation manages one of the state's largest scholarship programs, awarding more than $500,000 in scholarships to local students each year. If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, it's likely we have a scholarship that can help you achieve your dream.

Sally Bertina Meyer Scholarship

Awarded to a graduating senior of a high school in Minnehaha County in South Dakota.

Education - Higher Education

Robert W. Best Scholarship

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation

Founded in 1984, we are a 501(c)(3) public charity. Today, we manage more than 1,000 charitable funds, serving as the trusted stewards for more than $390 million in assets.

Our Community Investment team works with local nonprofits, schools and community leaders to identify gaps, assess critical needs and explore opportunities and possibilities. Our Philanthropy team works with individuals, families, advisors, businesses, and nonprofits, offering deep and broad experience and expertise in philanthropic strategy, charitable and organizational endowments, and legacy planning.

Scholarship Opportunities

The Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation manages one of the state's largest scholarship programs, awarding more than $500,000 in scholarships to local students each year. If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, it's likely we have a scholarship that can help you achieve your dream.

Robert W. Best Scholarship

Awarded to graduating seniors of Sioux Falls Christian High School or a public high school in Sioux Falls, SD.

Education - Higher Education

Mark Bielen Scholarship

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation

Founded in 1984, we are a 501(c)(3) public charity. Today, we manage more than 1,000 charitable funds, serving as the trusted stewards for more than $390 million in assets.

Our Community Investment team works with local nonprofits, schools and community leaders to identify gaps, assess critical needs and explore opportunities and possibilities. Our Philanthropy team works with individuals, families, advisors, businesses, and nonprofits, offering deep and broad experience and expertise in philanthropic strategy, charitable and organizational endowments, and legacy planning.

Scholarship Opportunities

The Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation manages one of the state's largest scholarship programs, awarding more than $500,000 in scholarships to local students each year. If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, it's likely we have a scholarship that can help you achieve your dream.

Mark Bielen Scholarship

Awarded to a graduating senior of an accredited high school in Minnehaha or Lincoln County in South Dakota.

Education - Higher Education

Joe Foss "An American Hero" Scholarship

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation

Founded in 1984, we are a 501(c)(3) public charity. Today, we manage more than 1,000 charitable funds, serving as the trusted stewards for more than $390 million in assets.

Our Community Investment team works with local nonprofits, schools and community leaders to identify gaps, assess critical needs and explore opportunities and possibilities. Our Philanthropy team works with individuals, families, advisors, businesses, and nonprofits, offering deep and broad experience and expertise in philanthropic strategy, charitable and organizational endowments, and legacy planning.

Scholarship Opportunities

The Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation manages one of the state's largest scholarship programs, awarding more than $500,000 in scholarships to local students each year. If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, it's likely we have a scholarship that can help you achieve your dream.

Joe Foss "An American Hero" Scholarship

Awarded to graduating seniors from South Dakota high schools. 

Education - Higher Education

Jim and Pat Croston Family Scholarship

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation
Private
South Dakota
Unspecified amount

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation

Founded in 1984, we are a 501(c)(3) public charity. Today, we manage more than 1,000 charitable funds, serving as the trusted stewards for more than $390 million in assets.

Our Community Investment team works with local nonprofits, schools and community leaders to identify gaps, assess critical needs and explore opportunities and possibilities. Our Philanthropy team works with individuals, families, advisors, businesses, and nonprofits, offering deep and broad experience and expertise in philanthropic strategy, charitable and organizational endowments, and legacy planning.

Scholarship Opportunities

The Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation manages one of the state's largest scholarship programs, awarding more than $500,000 in scholarships to local students each year. If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, it's likely we have a scholarship that can help you achieve your dream.

Jim and Pat Croston Family Scholarship

Awarded to a former graduate of an accredited high school in the Sioux Falls area. Preference is given to applicants pursuing a degree in elementary or secondary education and who have plans to work in a middle school setting.

Education - Higher Education

Edmond Amateis Foundation Scholarship

Educational Foundation of Lake County
Private
Lake County, Florida
Unspecified amount
The Edmond Amateis Foundation Scholarship supports Lake County seniors demonstrating financial need and maintaining a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Established by the Educational Foundation of Lake County, it is part of a broader mission to enhance public education through various initiatives. Annually, scholarships ranging from $500 to $20,000 are awarded to empower students in pursuing post-secondary education, thus contributing to their academic and professional success.
Education - Higher Education

Fred and Marie Christopherson Scholarship

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation
Private
South Dakota
Unspecified amount

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation

Founded in 1984, we are a 501(c)(3) public charity. Today, we manage more than 1,000 charitable funds, serving as the trusted stewards for more than $390 million in assets.

Our Community Investment team works with local nonprofits, schools and community leaders to identify gaps, assess critical needs and explore opportunities and possibilities. Our Philanthropy team works with individuals, families, advisors, businesses, and nonprofits, offering deep and broad experience and expertise in philanthropic strategy, charitable and organizational endowments, and legacy planning.

Scholarship Opportunities

The Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation manages one of the state's largest scholarship programs, awarding more than $500,000 in scholarships to local students each year. If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, it's likely we have a scholarship that can help you achieve your dream.

Fred and Marie Christopherson Scholarship

Awarded to graduating seniors from South Dakota high schools. This award is renewable for up to three additional years if requirements are met and if funds are available.

Education - Higher Education

Equitable Sioux Empire Scholarship

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation

Founded in 1984, we are a 501(c)(3) public charity. Today, we manage more than 1,000 charitable funds, serving as the trusted stewards for more than $390 million in assets.

Our Community Investment team works with local nonprofits, schools and community leaders to identify gaps, assess critical needs and explore opportunities and possibilities. Our Philanthropy team works with individuals, families, advisors, businesses, and nonprofits, offering deep and broad experience and expertise in philanthropic strategy, charitable and organizational endowments, and legacy planning.

Scholarship Opportunities

The Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation manages one of the state's largest scholarship programs, awarding more than $500,000 in scholarships to local students each year. If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, it's likely we have a scholarship that can help you achieve your dream.

Equitable Sioux Empire Scholarship

Awarded to a graduating senior of an accredited public or private high school in the Sioux Falls area. Equitable employees, associates, immediate family members of employees, and associates of the Donor are ineligible for this award.

Education - Higher Education

NAC: The Arts Accessibility Grant for Improvement Projects

Nebraska Arts Council
State/Local Government
Nebraska
Up to US $5,000
The Arts Accessibility Grant for Improvement Projects, provided by the Nebraska Arts Council, aims to enhance access to arts programs and facilities for individuals with disabilities. Nonprofit arts organizations in Nebraska can apply for this non-matching grant to improve their existing services beyond ADA requirements. Priority is given to those lacking access due to geographical or economic barriers. A Letter of Intent is required before applying, ensuring alignment with accessibility goals.
Arts / Culture Access & Participation

Bill Hayes Memorial Scholarship

Educational Foundation of Lake County
Private
Lake County, Florida
Unspecified amount
The Bill Hayes Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Educational Foundation of Lake County, supports graduating seniors from Lake County Schools pursuing careers in culinary arts or hospitality. With a GPA of 2.5 or higher, applicants must provide proof of enrollment in a culinary program. This scholarship aims to empower students financially, enabling them to achieve their educational goals and contribute to their communities.
Education - Higher Education Culinary Arts

Buprenorphine Drug Assistance Program (BUP-DAP)

District of Columbia Department of Behavioral Health
State/Local Government
District of Columbia
More than US $35,000
The Buprenorphine Drug Assistance Program (BUP-DAP) provides vital support for low-income individuals diagnosed with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) in Washington, D.C. By offering approved Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD), the program enhances access to quality treatment for those lacking health care coverage. It aims to integrate these individuals into a comprehensive system of care, fostering recovery and improving overall community health. This initiative emphasizes collaboration with Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) to maximize outreach and effectiveness.
Addiction & Substance Use Disorders

My Rides Transportation Program Grant

District of Columbia Department of Behavioral Health
State/Local Government
District of Columbia
More than US $100,000
The My Rides Transportation Program Grant, offered by the District of Columbia Department of Behavioral Health, aims to provide essential transportation services for residents in need of treatment for opioid and stimulant use disorders. By eliminating transportation barriers, the program facilitates access to crucial recovery support services. Eligible applicants include licensed Digital Taxi Solutions providers and Transportation Network Companies. A pre-application webinar will be held on December 22, 2025, for interested parties.
Addiction & Substance Use Disorders

St Joseph School District Foundation Euler, Earl E and Elmyra J Leininger Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation Of Northwest Missouri
Private
Missouri
US $1,000

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. 

St Joseph School District Foundation Euler, Earl E and Elmyra J Leininger Memorial Scholarship

For any Central High School senior with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Education - Higher Education

Arts & Culture- Production Costs Grants- Performing Arts Organizations

City of San Antonio
State/Local Government
Bexar County, Texas
Up to US $15,000
The Production Costs Grants from the City of San Antonio are designed to support performing arts organizations and professional artists by covering essential expenses such as artist fees, labor, marketing, security, and equipment rentals. This initiative aims to enhance the accessibility, quality, and innovation of performing arts programming in the area, ensuring that local nonprofits have the necessary resources to produce engaging performances.
Performing Arts

Private Grants for Nonprofits Highlights

Private grants for nonprofits provide funding from foundations, corporations, and individual donors to support programs and operations. The following grants empower organizations to achieve their missions, scale their impact, and address critical community needs effectively.


Search Instrumentl's Private Grants Database


Discover 8,000+ funding opportunities for nonprofits, with $3.43B available. Instrumentl connects nonprofits to tailored grants from private funders, offering tools for tracking deadlines, customized searches, and insights to maximize impact.

Grant Insights : Private Grants for Nonprofits

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Quite common — grants in this category are more prevalent than in others.

8,000+ Private grants for nonprofits grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

3,000+ Private grants for nonprofits over $25K in average grant size

3,000+ Private grants for nonprofits over $50K in average grant size

1,000+ Private grants for nonprofits supporting general operating expenses

7,000+ Private grants for nonprofits supporting programs / projects

2,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Community Development & Revitalization

3,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Education

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Private grants for Nonprofits?

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 Private Grants for Nonprofits?

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

Nonprofits working in education, healthcare, arts, social services, and the environment may be eligible for private grants. To be considered, organizations need to align with the mission and values of the donor or foundation offering the grant. Funders look for nonprofits that have strong evidence of making a positive impact on their communities and match their values.

Based on Instrumentl’s live grant database for private grants, grant deadlines are most common in Q1, accounting for 29.8% of all submission dates. The slowest period for new grant opportunities in this category falls in Q4, making it a less competitive time for preparation and strategic planning.

The goal of private grants is for individual donors and foundations to support nonprofits who align with their goals. Some grants support specific projects, while others provide general operating funds to help organizations maintain stability and grow. Funders want to back creative projects with positive impact, ensuring their long-term success.

Funding for private grants 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.

Private grants usually come from independent foundations, family foundations, corporate foundations, and individual donors. Well-known funders include the Ford Foundation, Rockefeller Foundation, and Walton Family Foundation, which support a wide range of causes. Some private grants come from smaller, locally focused foundations. Individual donors, including wealthy philanthropists, also fund private grants to causes they are passionate about.

To improve the chances of being awarded private grants, nonprofits should:

  • Research funders carefully – Get to know private funders by learning about their mission, past grant recipients, and funding priorities.
  • Be clear about your goals and expected results – Outline measurable outcomes, how the funds will be used, and what you hope to achieve. Having a history of success can also make your application more convincing.
  • Show financial responsibility – Prove you have good money management and a plan for long-term financial sustainability beyond the grant.
  • Build connections – Meet with grantmakers through networking events, email introductions, or funder Q&As.

Want to improve your private grant prospecting strategy? Master the process with our guide to private grant research.

Instrumentl simplifies the process of applying for private 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.

Streamline your grant management process with our workflow automation tools.