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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

Tree Campus Higher Education Program: California

National Arbor Day Foundation
Private
California
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, led by the National Arbor Day Foundation, empowers colleges and universities to enhance their campuses through tree planting and care. By meeting five key standards, institutions gain recognition for their commitment to sustainability and community engagement. This program fosters a greener, healthier environment for students and staff, while also promoting mental well-being and environmental stewardship. Join us in making campuses more livable and beautiful, and contribute positively to our planet.
Greening & Beautification

Tree Campus Higher Education Program: Colorado

National Arbor Day Foundation
Private
Colorado
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, led by the National Arbor Day Foundation, encourages colleges and universities to enhance their campuses through tree planting and maintenance. By meeting five key standards, institutions can earn recognition and foster community pride. This initiative promotes environmental health, supports mental well-being among students, and educates future generations on sustainability. Participating schools benefit from resources and recognition, making campuses more livable and green, ultimately contributing to the health of our planet.
Greening & Beautification

Adele Wells Meyer Memorial Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties
Private
Palm Beach County, Florida
Unspecified amount

Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties

The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, Inc., strengthens our communities by leading philanthropy and solutions through our direct work in partnership with donors, nonprofits and the community. Our 501(c)3 nonprofit Foundation is the foremost resource for convening partners to elevate people, improve lives and make our community a better place to live.

Grants & Scholarships

Grants power our nonprofit partners on the frontlines of pressing local issues, filling the opportunity gaps through direct-to-people programming.

Scholarships support aspiring college students who hold the promise of tomorrow’s progress.

Together, our competitive grants and scholarships help our region rise thanks to the vision and generosity of our donors. 

The Community Foundation offers both need and merit based scholarships.

Adele Wells Meyer Memorial Scholarship Fund

Scholarship Eligibility

  • Graduating high school senior attending a Palm Beach County public or private high school
  • Must be a resident of Palm Beach County
  • Demonstrate financial need
  • Students overall performance reflecting a B or C average

Education - Higher Education

AIE Arts Curriculum Project

Arkansas Heritage
State/Local Government
Arkansas
Up to US $10,000
The AIE Arts Curriculum Project, funded by the Arkansas Heritage, aims to enhance arts education in schools across Arkansas. By providing mini-grants, the project supports initiatives that integrate arts into curricula, fostering creativity and innovation among students. The Arkansas Arts Council, established in 1966, ensures that local artists engage with students, promoting equitable access to arts education. This initiative not only enriches the educational landscape but also strengthens community ties through cultural engagement.
Art Education

HOME Investment Partnership

City of Indianapolis: Department of Metropolitan Development (DMD)
State/Local Government
Marion County, Indiana
Unspecified amount
The HOME Investment Partnership Program, administered by the City of Indianapolis' Department of Metropolitan Development, provides federal funding to support the development of affordable housing for low-income individuals. It focuses on building, rehabilitating, and purchasing housing, as well as tenant-based rental assistance. Funding is awarded to partner organizations competitively, ensuring that resources effectively address local housing needs. For funding inquiries, individuals must contact designated partner organizations directly.
Real Estate & Housing

Alabama Power Foundation: Scholar Grants

Alabama Power Foundation
Corporate
Alabama
Up to US $5,000
The Alabama Power Foundation offers Scholar Grants to support public school teachers in grades two to eight, providing funding up to $7,500 for professional development and instructional resources aimed at improving student achievement in math and English language arts. The program prioritizes schools demonstrating financial need, ensuring effective collaboration among teachers to enhance educational outcomes. With a focus on innovative teaching tools and ongoing professional growth, these grants aim to empower educators and foster student success.
Teacher Development & Training

Tree Campus Higher Education Program: Connecticut

National Arbor Day Foundation
Private
Connecticut
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, led by the National Arbor Day Foundation, encourages colleges and universities to foster green spaces and enhance community forests. By meeting five key standards, institutions can achieve national recognition for their commitment to tree care and environmental stewardship. This program not only beautifies campuses but also promotes energy efficiency, mental health, and student engagement in environmental education, ultimately benefiting both students and the planet.
Greening & Beautification

Sons and Daughters Scholarship Program

Cleveland Cliffs Foundation
Private
Canada, United States
US $3,000
The Sons and Daughters Scholarship Program, administered by the Cleveland-Cliffs Foundation, offers a competitive scholarship of $3,000 annually for up to four years for undergraduate studies. This initiative recognizes exceptional academic and extracurricular achievements among high school students. Scholarships are available to those attending accredited colleges or universities in the U.S. or Canada, though children of Cleveland-Cliffs officers are ineligible. The program aims to enhance educational opportunities and support community growth.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Historic Preservation Restoration Grant

Arkansas Historic Preservation Program
Association/Society
Arkansas
Up to US $10,000
The Historic Preservation Restoration Grant, provided by the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program, supports the restoration of properties listed on the Arkansas Register of Historic Places and cemeteries on the National Register. Grants range from $5,000 to $10,000, requiring a cash match for funding. The program emphasizes maintaining historical integrity and promotes community engagement through revitalization efforts, ensuring that Arkansas's cultural heritage is preserved for future generations.
Historic Preservation

Arkansas Historical Marker Program Grants

Arkansas Historic Preservation Program
Association/Society
Arkansas
US $1,322 - US $1,387
The Arkansas Historic Marker Program Grants, initiated by the Division of Arkansas Heritage in 2017, aim to preserve and promote Arkansas's cultural and historic resources. By commemorating significant people, places, and events, the program fosters community engagement and educates the public about local history. Markers serve as lasting tributes to Arkansas's heritage, with a focus on both statewide and local histories, ensuring that the state's rich narrative is acknowledged and celebrated.
Historic Preservation

Tree Campus Higher Education Program: DC

National Arbor Day Foundation
Private
District of Columbia
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, initiated by the Arbor Day Foundation, encourages colleges and universities to cultivate community forests while promoting environmental stewardship. By meeting five essential standards, campuses can achieve recognition for their efforts in tree care, community engagement, and sustainability. This program not only beautifies educational spaces but also enhances mental health and reduces energy consumption, ultimately fostering a healthier planet for future generations.
Greening & Beautification

GSC Student Research Grant

Geological Society of Connecticut
Association/Society
Connecticut
US $500
The Geological Society of Connecticut offers the GSC Student Research Grant to support undergraduate and master’s students conducting geology-related fieldwork in Connecticut. Each year, up to three grants of $500 may be awarded to eligible applicants. Students from any institution can apply, provided they meet the eligibility criteria related to their field of study. This initiative aims to enhance geological research and education while promoting the sustainable use of natural resources in the state.
Geology

Tree Campus Higher Education Program: Delaware

National Arbor Day Foundation
Private
Delaware
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, led by the Arbor Day Foundation, promotes sustainable practices by encouraging colleges and universities to cultivate their community forests. By meeting five key standards, institutions can achieve national recognition, enhancing campus beauty and livability while providing environmental and mental health benefits to students and staff. This initiative fosters a commitment to environmental education through service-learning projects, making a lasting impact on both the campus community and the planet.
Greening & Beautification

Zonta Club of Aurora Scholarship 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.

Zonta Club of Aurora Scholarship Endowment Fund

The Zonta Club of Aurora Scholarship Endowment Fund was established to recognize academically talented female students graduating from a high school located in the City of Aurora.

Eligible students must have earned an overall grade point average of at least a 3.0 on a 4.0 point scale and also must be able to demonstrative positive values in the areas of character and leadership.

Zonta is an international professional business woman’s organization promoting improvement in the status and education of women through community service, study and action. The Aurora Club was established in 1959.

Education - Higher Education

Tree Campus Higher Education Program: Florida

National Arbor Day Foundation
Private
Florida
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, initiated by the Arbor Day Foundation, promotes environmental stewardship at colleges and universities by establishing a framework for maintaining healthy campus trees and green spaces. Participating institutions are recognized for their commitment to sustainability and community engagement, enhancing the college experience for students and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility. By meeting five key standards, schools can achieve national recognition, benefiting both the campus and the surrounding community.
Greening & Beautification

John & Sophie Choratch Scholarship Fund

Washington County Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Washington County Community Foundation

The Washington County Community Foundation seeks to improve the quality of life in Washington County by promoting and facilitating philanthropy. We accomplish this by assuming four philanthropic roles of Grantmaker, Donor Service Organization, Fundraiser, and Community Leader. Fostering philanthropy by offering charitable gifting opportunities to donors on an individualized basis and at reasonable fees, we make charitable giving easier, more satisfying, and more effective. 

The Foundation is a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation organized under the laws of Pennsylvania, which is registered with the Pennsylvania Charities Bureau and annually files the Federal Form 990.

Scholarships for Post-Secondary (Undergraduate) School

The Foundation provides both need-based and merit-based scholarships to students in Washington County, with a few scholarships also available to students in Greene County. All scholarships are made payable to the educational institution the student is attending. 

John & Sophie Choratch Scholarship Fund

For current year graduating seniors of any Washington County high school, whose parent or guardian is employed as, or who volunteers as, a first responder (e.g., fire, emergency/rescue, police). Special consideration will be given to those students whose parent or guardian has been killed in the line of duty or who have otherwise been affected by local tragedy.

Education - Higher Education

Drug Delivery Postdoctoral Fellowship

Pharmaceutical Research And Manufacturers Of America Fnd Inc (PhRMA)
Private
United States
Up to US $120,000
The PhRMA Foundation offers a Drug Delivery Postdoctoral Fellowship aimed at fostering biopharmaceutical innovation and enhancing research capabilities in drug delivery. This fellowship supports both U.S. and non-U.S. citizens who are involved in collaborative research training at accredited U.S. universities. Awardees receive a stipend of $60,000 per year for 12 to 24 months, with funding contingent on ongoing employment in the postdoctoral program. Ideal candidates are encouraged to expand their skills in new research environments.
Pharmacology

Trees for Texans - Trees For Schools Grant

Texan By Nature
Private
Texas
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Trees for Texans - Trees For Schools Grant, in partnership with Texan by Nature and H-E-B, aims to enhance community environments through native tree planting at schools near new H-E-B stores. This initiative not only helps cool urban areas and mitigate the urban heat island effect but also fosters educational opportunities and promotes mental well-being. By investing in sustainable practices, the program ensures long-term ecological benefits and engages the next generation in conservation efforts.
Greening & Beautification

The Michelle Yolanda Glenn Carey Scholarship

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation
Association/Society
United States
US $1,000

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation, founded in 2006, is the newest community foundation in South Carolina. We have a permanent endowment to meet the changing needs of the Pee Dee.

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation improves the quality of life in our area of South Carolina through inspired philanthropy and innovative community programs. We serve Chesterfield, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Marion, Marlboro, and Williamsburg Counties.

Scholarships

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation partners with donors to administer 12 scholarship funds for the benefit of students in the Pee Dee. All scholarship opportunities are established through specific funds established at ECCF with criteria determined by the donor. 

The Michelle Yolanda Glenn Carey Scholarship

This fund provides a scholarship to a graduating Pee Dee area high school senior who plans to major in education and teach at the elementary level. The fund was established in memory of Michelle Yolanda Glenn Carey who dedicated twenty years to the teaching of kindergarten students at Theodore Lester Elementary School in Florence, South Carolina.

Education - Higher Education

LGBTQ Health & Wellness Fund RFP

Our Fund Inc.
Private
Broward County, Florida, Miami-Dade County, Florida +1 more
Up to US $40,000
The LGBTQ Health & Wellness Fund RFP aims to enhance health equity for LGBT individuals in South Florida by funding initiatives that address their specific health and wellness needs. This program supports organizations dedicated to closing health disparities caused by social stigma and discrimination. Applicants must be 501(c)(3) non-profits, focusing on LGBTQ populations, and should propose interventions aligned with the Health Promotion Research Report. The goal is to foster healthier, happier lives for the LGBT community.
LGBTQIA+ Services

Drug Delivery Predoctoral Fellowship

Pharmaceutical Research And Manufacturers Of America Fnd Inc (PhRMA)
Private
United States
Up to US $60,000
The Drug Delivery Predoctoral Fellowship by the PhRMA Foundation supports promising PhD candidates in drug delivery research at accredited U.S. universities. It provides $30,000 per year for 12 to 24 months, aimed at enhancing the understanding of drug formulation and delivery technologies. The fellowship emphasizes innovative research that leads to improved patient outcomes and fosters collaboration among diverse research teams, ensuring that all individuals have access to groundbreaking medicines.
Pharmacology

Historic Preservation Demonstration Project Program

City of Phoenix
State/Local Government
Maricopa County, Arizona
More than US $10,000
The Historic Preservation Demonstration Project Program, funded by the City of Phoenix, aims to rehabilitate significant historic buildings while preserving their architectural integrity. The program provides up to 50% funding for eligible projects, encouraging restoration and reuse of historic properties such as museums and churches. By adhering to the city's General Design Guidelines and the Secretary of the Interior's Standards, the program supports sustainable preservation efforts that enhance community heritage and promote responsible development.
Historic Preservation

Drug Discovery Predoctoral Fellowship

Pharmaceutical Research And Manufacturers Of America Fnd Inc (PhRMA)
Private
United States
Up to US $60,000
The Drug Discovery Predoctoral Fellowship by the PhRMA Foundation supports PhD candidates engaged in thesis research in drug discovery. This fellowship offers $30,000 annually for 12 to 24 months, encouraging innovative research that integrates multiple scientific disciplines. Applicants must be full-time, in-residence students at accredited U.S. universities and have completed significant coursework. The funding is conditional upon continued enrollment and is intended for stipend support, with some funds allowable for research-related incidentals.
Pharmacology

Local News Initiative Grants

Community Foundation for Southern Arizona
Private
Cochise County, Arizona, Graham County, Arizona +5 more
US $60,000 - US $80,000
The Local News Initiative of Southern Arizona, launched in November 2023 by civic leaders and CFSA, aims to counteract the decline in local news by funding the hiring of more journalists. This initiative supports diverse news formats and organizations, focusing on nonpartisan, independent reporting that serves Southern Arizona communities. With grants ranging from $25,000 to $75,000, the initiative seeks to enhance local journalism and ensure that vital information reaches the public.
News Media & Communications

Historic Preservation Exterior Rehabilitation Assistance Program

City of Phoenix
State/Local Government
Maricopa County, Arizona
US $5,000 - US $20,000
The Historic Preservation Exterior Rehabilitation Assistance Program aims to support the preservation of historic buildings in Phoenix by offering financial assistance to homeowners. Eligible property owners can receive grants ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 for exterior rehabilitation projects. This program promotes the retention of historic architectural elements while ensuring that homes in designated historic districts or listed on the city's register are maintained and restored appropriately. Applicants must adhere to specific guidelines and deadlines to qualify.
Historic Preservation

Phil Gordon Threatened Building Grant Program

City of Phoenix
State/Local Government
Maricopa County, Arizona
More than US $10,000
The Phil Gordon Threatened Building Grant Program, funded by the City of Phoenix, aims to preserve and rehabilitate historic downtown warehouses and buildings at risk of demolition. The program provides up to 100% funding for eligible projects, contingent upon owners investing an equal amount in rehabilitation. With a focus on exterior preservation and compliance with historic standards, it ensures that significant properties are maintained for future use, contributing to the city's cultural heritage and urban landscape.
Historic Preservation

Dr. Mark Paxton Dental Scholarship

Innovia Foundation
Private
United States
US $500 - US $10,000

Innovia Foundation

Each year, Innovia awards over $500,000 in scholarships to deserving students like you who are college-bound or pursuing vocational or technical training. Single scholarship awards range between $500 and $10,000.

Dr. Mark Paxton Dental Scholarship

Applicants must pursue a career in the field of dentistry limited to dental hygiene, dental assisting, or dental lab technician and be a resident in one of the following counties: Spokane, Lincoln, Adams, Whitman, Pend Oreille, Stevens or Ferry. Applicants must demonstrate financial need.

The scholarship committee will consider the applicant’s experience participating in school or community activities and job or volunteer activities, as well as his or her commitment to academic excellence. Previous recipients of this award are eligible to reapply.

Dental Health

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.