Upcoming Webinar
Instrumentl Fall Launch: Grant Work, Leveled Up.
Thu, Oct 29 or Wed, Nov 4 @ 2PM ET

Skip to main content
Main content

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

Skip the search. Get matched with grants that fit your non-profit.

Skip the search.

Get matched with grants that actually fit.

Smart recommendations based on your profile — in minutes.

Find me grants

Filters

32,595 Results based on applied filters

Arts & Culture- Production Costs Grants - Artist Grants

City of San Antonio
State/Local Government
Bexar County, Texas
US $7,500 - US $15,000
The Production Costs Grants for Performing Artists, offered by the City of San Antonio, aim to support local performing arts organizations and professional artists. This funding can be utilized for artist fees, back-of-house labor, marketing for upcoming productions, security, and rental costs. The goal is to promote accessible, high-quality, and innovative performing arts programming in the San Antonio area.
Performing Arts

Events Grants

City of San Antonio
State/Local Government
Bexar County, Texas
Up to US $20,000
The City of San Antonio offers Events Grants to support artistic events produced by local nonprofits. These grants are available for three-year funding cycles and aim to enhance access to the city's rich arts and culture. By funding a single event, these grants encourage creativity and community engagement in the arts, ensuring that diverse cultural expressions are showcased and celebrated within San Antonio.
Arts / Culture Access & Participation

Community Foundation Competitive Grants - The Boon House Legacy Fund Grant

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI
Association/Society
Mason County, Michigan
Unspecified amount

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Community Foundation Competitive Grants

Through grantmaking, we partner with local organizations to support projects that reflect the needs and opportunities of our region and serve our donors’ shared desire to enhance the quality of life for people in Mason County, now and far into the future.

Our Priorities

  • Education: Workforce and Learning Readiness - We strive to create a career education culture across multiple pathways (college, trades, certificates, and apprenticeships), increase equitable access to high-quality learning opportunities for all ages, and advance talent development initiatives that align learning with workforce needs.
  • Economic Development: Workforce Supports - We aim to foster a thriving local economy by developing innovative, attainable housing solutions; advancing transportation infrastructure and accessibility; and removing barriers to financial independence.
  • Community Development: Recreation & Quality of Life - We promote the development of new, existing, and interconnected trails; work to increase and enhance inclusive and engaging public spaces and recreational activities; and foster vibrant, diverse, and sustainable arts and culture opportunities.

Be sure to review our grant priorities and guidelines. 

Community Foundation Competitive Grants: The Boon House Legacy Fund Grant Opportunity

The Boon House Legacy Fund Grant opportunity is available for nonprofits seeking support for projects that address prevention, treatment, and recovery of substance abuse and substance use disorders. Nonprofits interested will complete the same application and choose “The Boon House Legacy Fund Grant” option in the strategic goal section of the application.

Addiction & Substance Use Disorders

Ralph A. Milliman Scholarship

Community Foundation of Henderson County
Private
United States
US $1,500

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Individuals, families, organizations and businesses establish funds at the Foundation to carry out their charitable giving now and in the future.

Community Foundation of Henderson County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public charity, governed by a volunteer board of directors, that has been assisting donors fulfill their philanthropic dreams since 1982.

Our Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.

Scholarships

Community Foundation of Henderson County's Scholarship Program began in 1984. Thanks to the generosity of passionate donors, over 2,000 traditional and non-traditional students have been provided more than $10 million in scholarships to pursue higher education.

Ralph A. Milliman Scholarship

The applicant must be a resident of Henderson County, but the student does not have to attend a Henderson County school. Financial aid is a requirement. The scholarship is not based on merit but is based on need.

The schlarship is renewable.

Education - Higher Education

Human Service Grant Program

Sussex County
State/Local Government
Sussex County, Delaware
US $150 - US $3,900
The Human Service Grant Program, funded by Sussex County with $225,000, aims to support county-wide non-profit agencies enhancing health and human services. Grants range from $500 to $3,500, with an average of $2,400 in FY 2024. Eligible organizations must have a minimum of two years of service in Sussex County. The program emphasizes reasonable and realistic funding requests to meet budget constraints while fostering a safe, healthy, and self-sufficient community.
Health & Medicine Human & Social Services

Building Opportunities for Lasting Development (BOLD) Grant Program

The City of Birmingham
State/Local Government
Jefferson County, Alabama, Shelby County, Alabama
US $50,000 - US $150,000
The Building Opportunities for Lasting Development (BOLD) Grant Program, initiated by the City of Birmingham’s Department of Innovation and Economic Opportunity, invites innovative proposals for enhancing economic development. With a focus on fostering resilience and mobility, the program aims to support women-, minority-, and disadvantaged-owned businesses. Now entering its seventh year, BOLD seeks to collaborate with community organizations to cultivate an inclusive and thriving economic landscape in Birmingham.
Economic Services & Development

Outcomes Innovative Pharmacy Grant Program - Entrepreneur Track

Iowa Pharmacy Association
Private
Iowa
Unspecified amount
The Outcomes Innovative Pharmacy Grant Program - Entrepreneur Track supports innovative pharmacy initiatives in Iowa, providing up to $50,000 for eligible applicants. To qualify, applicants must be licensed pharmacists or researchers in Iowa, members of the Iowa Pharmacy Association, and submit a letter of interest along with a 10/20/30 pitch deck. The funds can only be used for direct project costs, excluding overhead and salaries for patient care services.
Pharmacology

HFBC: Community Fund Grants

Heritage Fund of Bartholomew County
Private
Bartholomew County, Indiana
Unspecified amount
The HFBC Community Fund Grants support local organizations in Bartholomew County with an annual budget of over $700,000. The program focuses on areas such as arts, culture, youth development, and downtown vibrancy. Grants are awarded to foster innovative community solutions, encourage collaboration, and promote sustainability. Priority is given to projects that enhance community engagement and address pressing needs, while ineligible projects include those primarily funded by Heritage Fund or seeking to cover operational expenses.
Senior Services

Paul and Linda Mulligan Scholarship for Business

Community Foundation of Henderson County
Private
United States
US $10,000

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Individuals, families, organizations and businesses establish funds at the Foundation to carry out their charitable giving now and in the future.

Community Foundation of Henderson County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public charity, governed by a volunteer board of directors, that has been assisting donors fulfill their philanthropic dreams since 1982.

Our Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.

Scholarships

Community Foundation of Henderson County's Scholarship Program began in 1984. Thanks to the generosity of passionate donors, over 2,000 traditional and non-traditional students have been provided more than $10 million in scholarships to pursue higher education.

Paul and Linda Mulligan Scholarship for Business

This scholarship provides financial support to a graduate or graduating senior of a Henderson County public high school or Venice High School in Sarasota, Florida who is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Business at either a public or a private (non-profit) college or university. 

The schlarship is renewable.

Education - Higher Education

Passage to the Future Scholarship

Community Foundation of Henderson County
Private
United States
US $2,000

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Individuals, families, organizations and businesses establish funds at the Foundation to carry out their charitable giving now and in the future.

Community Foundation of Henderson County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public charity, governed by a volunteer board of directors, that has been assisting donors fulfill their philanthropic dreams since 1982.

Our Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.

Scholarships

Community Foundation of Henderson County's Scholarship Program began in 1984. Thanks to the generosity of passionate donors, over 2,000 traditional and non-traditional students have been provided more than $10 million in scholarships to pursue higher education.

Passage to the Future Scholarship

Applicant must have graduated from a Henderson County public or private high school and attained a GPA of at least a "C" or its equivalent. Applicant may be planning to attend a two-year or a four-year institution. 

The schlarship is renewable.

Education - Higher Education

Odell Rouse Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation of Henderson County
Private
United States
US $1,000

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Individuals, families, organizations and businesses establish funds at the Foundation to carry out their charitable giving now and in the future.

Community Foundation of Henderson County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public charity, governed by a volunteer board of directors, that has been assisting donors fulfill their philanthropic dreams since 1982.

Our Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.

Scholarships

Community Foundation of Henderson County's Scholarship Program began in 1984. Thanks to the generosity of passionate donors, over 2,000 traditional and non-traditional students have been provided more than $10 million in scholarships to pursue higher education.

Odell Rouse Memorial Scholarship

Applicant must demonstrate financial need and plan to pursue an education beyond 12th grade by attending an accredited post-secondary institution of higher learning.  

Education - Higher Education

Swami Vivekananda Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley
Private
DeKalb County, Illinois, DuPage County, Illinois +5 more
Unspecified amount

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

Swami Vivekananda Scholarship Fund

This fund was created by the City of Aurora’s Indian American Community Outreach Advisory Board (IACOAB).

IACOAB’s mission is to embrace, preserve and promote the heritage and contributions of Indian American’s while promoting civic engagement and encouraging Indian Americans to increase their involvement in Aurora’s growth.

The IACOAB created the Swami Vivekananda Scholarship Fund to support college-bound high school seniors to further their education in a field of their choice. Applicants must have demonstrated exemplary community service. 

Education - Higher Education

Morris Kaplan Kiwanis Scholarship

Community Foundation of Henderson County
Private
United States
US $1,250

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Individuals, families, organizations and businesses establish funds at the Foundation to carry out their charitable giving now and in the future.

Community Foundation of Henderson County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public charity, governed by a volunteer board of directors, that has been assisting donors fulfill their philanthropic dreams since 1982.

Our Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.

Scholarships

Community Foundation of Henderson County's Scholarship Program began in 1984. Thanks to the generosity of passionate donors, over 2,000 traditional and non-traditional students have been provided more than $10 million in scholarships to pursue higher education.

Morris Kaplan Kiwanis Scholarship

The recipient shall be a citizen and resident of Henderson County and shall have graduated from a high school in Henderson County. 

The schlarship is renewable.

Education - Higher Education

William “Skip” Rowe Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley
Private
DeKalb County, Illinois, DuPage County, Illinois +5 more
Unspecified amount

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

William “Skip” Rowe Scholarship Fund

William “Skip” Rowe was a father and husband who spent his entire life taking care of his family, friends and the many young people in the community. Skip was able to make friends with people from all backgrounds, and he was known to be a father-figure and mentor to many young men that just needed a trusted adult to help keep them on the right path. This fund was created to honor his memory and will help to provide support to a male student going into the field of education. This scholarship was made possible by the many friends and family that loved Skip and continue to benefit from his endless generosity, passion and love.

Education - Higher Education

Continuation or Revision of NIDCR Clinical Trial Planning and Implementation Cooperative Agreement (UH3 Clinical Trial Required)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Unspecified amount
The NIDCR is inviting applications for the continuation or revision of ongoing clinical trials through the UH3 Clinical Trial Required grant. This opportunity supports extensions for completing trials or longer follow-up periods, as well as revisions that are well justified. Key deadlines for submissions are set from March 2025 to January 2028, with optional Letters of Intent encouraged thirty days prior to application due dates. Ensure compliance with the outlined requirements to enhance your chances of funding.
Dental Health

Santa Ynez Valley Foundation: Arts & Culture / Community Enhancement Grant

Santa Ynez Valley Foundation
Private
Santa Barbara County, California
Unspecified amount

Santa Ynez Valley Foundation

Founded in 1991 by Stuart C. Gildred, Sr., the Santa Ynez Valley Foundation proudly supports programs and services that benefit the Santa Ynez Valley and Los Alamos communities. Our mission focuses on grant-making and active collaboration with nonprofits, community leaders, and grassroots projects to strengthen the social fabric of the region.

More than $7.5 million in grants has been awarded to nearly 300 local organizations, and scholarships have been awarded to 578 students pursuing higher education. By partnering with donors, we continue to fund grants and scholarships that strengthen nonprofits, empower students, and enrich community life. Every gift creates opportunities, fosters connections, and helps build a stronger, more vibrant community for all.

Santa Ynez Valley Foundation: Arts & Culture / Community Enhancement Grant

The Santa Ynez Valley Foundation (SYVF) awards grants to organizations that are certified as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and provide programs and services to people in the Santa Ynez Valley and Los Alamos.

SYVF supports organizations that do not discriminate in their delivery of programs and services based on race, color, religion, gender, national origin, ancestry, age, medical condition, disability, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law. SYVF will consider projects from faith-based organizations, provided the projects are secular in nature and open to individuals of all faiths and/or those with no religious affiliation.

Art & Culture Community Development & Revitalization

Austin City Limits Music Festival Park Grants Program: Neighborhood Grants

Austin Parks Foundation
Private
Austin County, Texas
US $500 - US $5,000
The Austin City Limits Music Festival Park Grants Program offers Neighborhood Grants ranging from $500 to $5,000 for community-led park improvement projects. These grants support Adopt-A-Park groups, stewards, and community gardens in enhancing public parks throughout the year. Projects must be on city-managed parkland and can be initiated by groups actively involved in park stewardship. This initiative aims to foster community engagement and improve local green spaces.
Parks & Public Spaces

Communities Outreach Programme

Islamic Development Bank
Corporate
Andorra, Angola +138 more
Unspecified amount
The Communities Outreach Programme by the Islamic Development Bank aims to enhance the socio-economic development of Muslim minority communities in non-member countries. Established in 1981, it focuses on education, health, and capacity building to empower these communities. The programme supports initiatives that foster entrepreneurship, women's empowerment, and youth development, ensuring inclusive growth. By addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, it strives to improve living conditions and promote productivity, ultimately contributing to sustainable development in diverse regions.
Islam & Islamic Culture

Innovations in Graduate Education (IGE) Program (351947)

National Science Foundation (NSF)
Federal Government
United States
US $300,000 - US $1,000,000
The Innovations in Graduate Education (IGE) Program, funded by the National Science Foundation, aims to transform STEM graduate education through innovative training approaches. It encourages proposals that support skill development for STEM careers and research on effective educational systems. The program offers funding for projects that pilot and validate novel educational models, promoting broad participation and collaboration with various sectors. Awards range from $300,000 to $1,000,000, depending on the track and project duration.
STEM / STEAM Education

MiSTEM Playbook Mini Grant

Michigan Department of Education
State/Local Government
Michigan
Up to US $50,000

MiSTEM Playbook Mini Grant

Guided by our mission to be the catalyst forequitable access to authentic STEM experiences in every community, this grant supports projects that make learning meaningful by connecting classrooms to real-world challenges, community voices, and future-ready skills.Our vision is to empower the next generation of Michigan innovators to create inclusive, prosperous communities of tomorrow. That vision comes alive through transformative STEM leadership and instructional approaches that center equity, community, and authentic problem solving.The MiSTEM Playbook Mini Grant is designed to grow 3P learning, Project, Problem, and Place Based Learning, as a foundation for equitable STEM experiences. Here’s what that means:

  • Project-Based Learning (PBL): Students tackle driving questions, apply STEM practices, and design solutions that result in a tangible product or artifact to share with their community. PBL bridges content with real-world application and career relevance.
  • Problem-Based Learning (PrBL): Students are introduced to complex, ill-structured problems that mirror real-world challenges. Through collaborative inquiry and coaching, they develop critical reasoning, persistence, and metacognitive skills to pursue solutions.
  • Place-Based Learning (PBE): Students’ learning is rooted in their local community, environment, and culture. It builds stewardship, honors Indigenous and local knowledge, and helps students connect the assets of their region to global contexts and challenges.

STEM / STEAM Education

DAAD: German Studies Research Grant

German Academic Exchange Service (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst - DAAD)
Association/Society
Germany
US $2,000 - US $3,000
The DAAD German Studies Research Grant is designed for undergraduate and graduate students pursuing German Studies, offering support for short-term research in Germany. Eligible candidates include undergraduates, Master's students, and PhD candidates nominated by their professors. The grant aims to facilitate research into various aspects of modern German affairs while ensuring applicants have a solid background in German language and culture. Funding assists with living and travel costs during the research period.
Cross-Cultural Understanding & Exchanges

Arboriculture Association Research Grant

The Arboricultural Association
Association/Society
United Kingdom
Up to £5,000
The Arboriculture Association Research Grant provides funding up to £5,000 for research projects focused on arboriculture, available annually to UK-based applicants. This grant aims to foster knowledge and innovation in the field, supporting studies deemed relevant and valuable by the Arboricultural Association. Applicants are encouraged to propose projects that contribute to the understanding and advancement of arboricultural practices and principles.
Plant Science

St Joseph Construction Association 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 Construction Association Scholarship

This fund was established by the St Joseph Construction Association to provide academic scholarships to students pursuing a degree in a Construction related field.

Education - Higher Education

Winifred M. Wyman Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation of Henderson County
Private
United States
US $1,500

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Individuals, families, organizations and businesses establish funds at the Foundation to carry out their charitable giving now and in the future.

Community Foundation of Henderson County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public charity, governed by a volunteer board of directors, that has been assisting donors fulfill their philanthropic dreams since 1982.

Our Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.

Scholarships

Community Foundation of Henderson County's Scholarship Program began in 1984. Thanks to the generosity of passionate donors, over 2,000 traditional and non-traditional students have been provided more than $10 million in scholarships to pursue higher education.

Winifred M. Wyman Memorial Scholarship

Applicant must be a graduate of a Henderson County public school who wishes to pursue his or her education at an accredited college or university. 

The schlarship is renewable.

Education - Higher Education

Dickes Family Scholarship Permanent Endowment Fund

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley
Private
Illinois
Unspecified amount

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

Dickes Family Scholarship Permanent Endowment Fund

This fund was established upon receipt of a bequest from the estate of Herman A. Dickes.

Mr. Dickes (1905-2000) was born in Aurora and graduated from East Aurora High School.

Prior to his retirement, he had been employed by the Burlington Railroad.

His wife May Dickes (1907-1989) was born in Chicago. She was an enthusiastic volunteer for numerous community projects and served as the first chairperson of the Mercy Ball.

Mr. and Mrs. Dickes were involved in many youth activities and charitable organizations in Aurora.

Holy Angels Catholic Church, Mercy Center, Knights of Columbus, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and the Elks Club were a few of the many special places which felt their love.

In keeping with their belief in the importance and accessibility of education for all youth, the couple established an endowed scholarship for students with financial need who are graduating from a high school located within the City of Aurora or from Marmion Academy.

Education - Higher Education

Paul, Thomas M Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation Of Northwest Missouri
Private
Missouri
US $1,500

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. 

Paul, Thomas M Memorial Scholarship

This fund was established to provide academic scholarships to men and women pursuing higher education in attendance at the St. Joseph Junior College (Now Missouri Western State University) or other institutions of higher learning.

Education - Higher Education

Clare County Youth Action Council Grants (ClareYAC)

Midland Area Community Foundation
Private
Clare County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Clare County Youth Action Council Grants, provided by the Clare County Community Foundation, aim to enhance local community well-being through philanthropic efforts. These grants are available to 501(c)(3) nonprofits and governmental units serving Clare County. Emphasis is on programs that address critical local needs, facilitate collaboration, and demonstrate long-term sustainability. The Foundation prioritizes projects that leverage additional funding and resources, ensuring impactful community development.
Youth Services

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.