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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

WV Culture: Arts Entrepreneurship for Individual Artists

West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture, and History
State/Local Government
West Virginia
Up to US $5,000
The WV Culture: Professional Development for Artists grant offers up to $5,000 to support professional and emerging artists in expanding their work or sharing their expertise. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, public educational institutions, and arts programs that serve the broader community in West Virginia. Organizations must meet specific tax-exempt criteria and demonstrate the capacity for matching funds to qualify for this grant, promoting community engagement through the arts.
Artist Training & Development

WV Culture: Living Traditions: Folk Art – Organizations Providing Folk Art Opportunities

West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture, and History
State/Local Government
West Virginia
Up to US $5,000
The WV Culture: Living Traditions grant provides funding up to $5,000 for eligible organizations in West Virginia, including 501(c)(3) nonprofits, schools, and local governments. This grant supports workshops and activities that promote folk and traditional arts, fostering community engagement and cultural heritage. However, it does not cover public education positions, fundraising activities, or non-arts related projects. Organizations are encouraged to apply for this opportunity to enhance cultural programming.
Folk Art / Traditional Art

Davenport, Evans, Hurwitz & Smith Scholarship

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation
Private
South Dakota
Unspecified amount
The Davenport, Evans, Hurwitz & Smith Scholarship, managed by the Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation, offers significant financial support for students pursuing higher education in South Dakota. With over $500,000 awarded annually, this scholarship targets high-achieving seniors from specific counties, encouraging participation in community activities and academic excellence. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and plan to attend an accredited institution, ensuring that deserving students receive the assistance they need to succeed.
Education - Higher Education

Boren Fellowship

National Security Education Program
Federal Government
Africa, Asia +8 more
Up to US $25,000
The Boren Fellowship, offered by the National Security Education Program, supports U.S. graduate students in studying critical languages and cultures in underrepresented regions. With awards up to $25,000, it encourages immersion in languages like Arabic and Chinese. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and enrolled in accredited graduate programs. The initiative prioritizes programs that enhance national security through language proficiency and cultural understanding, fostering public service among its alumni.
Domestic / Homeland Security

Carolyn Horton Scholarship

Foundation For Advancement In Conservation
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $1,000
The Carolyn Horton Scholarship, initiated by the Foundation For Advancement In Conservation, supports members of the Book and Paper Group in covering costs for meetings, seminars, workshops, and research projects. Named after conservationist Carolyn Horton, who made significant contributions to the field, this scholarship aims to foster excellence and education in book and paper conservation. Eligible applicants must be current members of AIC and the Book and Paper specialty group, promoting ongoing professional development.
Art Conservation

WV Culture: Arts in Education - Mini-Grants

West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture, and History
State/Local Government
West Virginia
Up to US $1,000

WV Culture: Arts in Education - Mini-Grants

What is an Arts in Education Mini-Grant? The Arts in Education Mini-Grant program is a funding opportunity of the West Virginia Commission on the Arts (WVCA) providing direct support to projects that present West Virginia artists in performances, workshops, and other arts education experiences serving PK-12 students.

Art Education

CSA Scholars’ Roundtable Honor

Costume Society of America
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount
The CSA Scholars’ Roundtable Honor recognizes individuals who exemplify excellence in costume scholarship. Since its establishment in 1997, it fosters dynamic discussions on pertinent costume scholarship issues during the CSA National Symposium. Nominees are evaluated based on their innovative experiences, insights into scholarly topics, and ability to collaborate effectively. This initiative not only celebrates scholarship but also encourages interdisciplinary dialogue and engagement among scholars in the field.
Visual Arts

Montgomery County Community Foundation: Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship

Montgomery County Community Foundation Inc.
Private
Indiana
Up to US $900

MCCF | About

Helping You Achieve Your Charitable Goals for Montgomery County, Indiana

The Montgomery County Community Foundation was founded in 1991 to support its residents by facilitating proactive and positive changes in the community. Through donor gifts, our foundation fulfills the needs of nonprofits working to improve the quality of life in our county. 

We are here as a reliable source of information and connections to help you accomplish your charitable goals – and help you make a lasting impact.

Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship

Description:

The Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship program will provide one scholarship for full tuition, required fees, and a special allocation of up to $900 per year for required books and required equipment for four years of undergraduate study on a full-time basis, leading to a baccalaureate degree at any Indiana public or private college or university accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges.

Education - Higher Education

CFEW Religious Education Grants

Catholic Foundation of Eastern Washington (CFEW)
Association/Society
Adams County, Washington, Asotin County, Washington +18 more
US $500 - US $3,300
The CFEW Religious Education Grants, provided by the Catholic Foundation of Eastern Washington, support projects that enhance religious education for youth and adults. Grants range from $500 to $3,300 and prioritize underfunded groups. Examples of previous recipients include an elementary school providing bibles for students, a group addressing the spiritual needs of Hispanic Catholics, and a retreat for high school students. These grants continue the Foundation's mission of furthering the work of the Church since 1981.
Religious / Theological Education

Olivia Scott 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. 

Olivia Scott Scholarship Fund

For current year graduating seniors of any Washington County high school, who demonstrate academic excellence, sportsmanship, and/or the ability to work with others towards a common goal.

Education - Higher Education

McDonald Family Cookie Jar 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. 

McDonald Family Cookie Jar Scholarship Fund

For a current year graduating senior who resides within the boundaries of any Washington County school district, who plans to enroll in a certificate, associate, or bachelor's degree program, and who demonstrates financial need. In the selection process, preference shall be given to students from under-represented, disadvantaged and/or diverse populations.

Education - Higher Education

Kiwanis Club of Washington 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. 

Kiwanis Club of Washington Scholarship Fund

For students who reside within the boundaries of the Avella Area School District, McGuffey School District, Trinity Area School District, Washington School District, and/or attended the Western Area Career & Technology Center and who plan to enroll in a certificate, associate, or bachelor’s degree program. Qualified applicants who are planning to attend or currently attending Penn Commercial Business/Technical School and/or have a strong community service background will be given special consideration.

Education - Higher Education

Christa McAuliffe Sabbatical

New Hampshire Charitable Foundation
Private
New Hampshire
Up to US $12,000
The Christa McAuliffe Sabbatical provides a unique opportunity for exceptional New Hampshire public school teachers to take a year-long leave of absence. This award allows teachers to engage in a self-designed project that fosters new ideas and enhances classroom teaching. Funded by the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation, this sabbatical aims to inspire educators and improve educational practices through innovative exploration and professional growth.
Teacher Development & Training

Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity – Saginaw Alumni Scholarship

Saginaw Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity – Saginaw Alumni Scholarship

Kappa Alpha Psi, an international college fraternity, was founded in 1911 and has more than 600 functioning undergraduate and alumni chapters. The motto of the fraternity is “achievement in every field of human endeavor.” Fashioning achievement as its purpose, Kappa Alpha Psi continues to unite college men of patriotism and honor in a bond of fraternity.

The Kappa Instructional Leadership League is a male youth group consisting of area high school students. The youth group is sponsored by the Saginaw Alumni Chapter in accordance with the fraternity’s National Guide Right Program.

The Saginaw Alumni Chapter has established a scholarship program in recognition and memory of the following men who were devoted and dedicated members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity: Lee Arthur, Sr., John Gibson Jr., Dr. Vernal Cambridge and George Carter, Sr.

Education - Higher Education

Shiu-Ying Hu Student/ Postdoctoral Exchange Award

Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University
Private
China, Massachusetts
Up to US $10,000
The Shiu-Ying Hu Student/Postdoctoral Exchange Award facilitates collaborative research between American and Chinese scholars in the field of woody plant biology. Established in honor of Professor Shiu-Ying Hu's contributions to botanical science, it supports graduate students and postdoctoral researchers from the People's Republic of China or Harvard University. Awardees can explore living collections at the Arnold Arboretum or conduct field studies in China, enhancing cross-cultural academic exchange and scientific discovery.
Plant Science

Joan Cahalin Robinson Prize

Society for the History of Technology
Association/Society
Luxembourg
Unspecified amount
The Joan Cahalin Robinson Prize, established in 1980 by Dr. Eric Robinson, is awarded annually for the best paper presented by a first-time presenter at the SHOT annual meeting. The prize encourages professional growth, emphasizing both historical research quality and presentation effectiveness. Candidates must be graduate students or recent Ph.D. recipients and submit their papers in advance. The award includes a monetary prize and a certificate, fostering excellence in the field of history and technology.
History Of Science

Ingebord Crede Memorial Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

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.

Ingebord Crede Memorial Scholarship Fund

  • Student must major in secondary education, English literature or history
  • Demonstrate financial need
Education - Higher Education

Senior Citizen Grants - Senior Support Services Grants

Pinellas Community Foundation
Private
Pinellas County, Florida
US $800 - US $20,000
The Senior Citizen Services Grants offer support to charitable organizations and government entities that enhance the quality of life for residents aged 55 and older in Pinellas County. Grants, ranging from $800 to $20,000, can be requested for various support services, including transportation, utilities assistance, and elder abuse prevention. Letters of Intent are accepted between November 1 and October 15, 2025, prioritizing nonprofit agencies that align with community needs and provide essential services.
Senior Services

Jerrold E. Potts Scholarship

Saginaw Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

Jerrold E. Potts Scholarship

Jerrold E. Potts was born and raised in Saginaw, living here until his death in 1997. An electrician by trade, he served in the U.S. Army and Army Reserves. Jerry was a longtime member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local #557. He was also a member of the Saginaw Lodge #77, F&AM, where he twice served as Worshipful Master.

Jerry was a caring, compassionate person who supported many causes, often anonymously. When establishing the Jerrold E. Potts Scholarship, Jerry indicated that the primary scholarship beneficiaries should be the children and grandchildren of IBEW 557 members because “I started there.” He also wanted the scholarship to “make the difference between going to school and not going to school.”

Education - Higher Education

AARP Community Challenge Grant: Capacity-Building Microgrant

AARP Foundation
Association/Society
Puerto Rico, United States +1 more
US $2,500
The AARP Community Challenge Grant: Capacity-Building Microgrant offers $2,500 to support projects that enhance community livability for residents aged 50 and older. Initiated in 2017, it has funded over 1,700 projects nationwide, focusing on immediate improvements and long-term progress. Eligible organizations include nonprofits and government entities, aiming to implement innovative programs in areas like disaster preparedness, walkability, and home modifications. This initiative fosters inclusive communities and empowers older adults.
Senior Services

Jefferson College of Health Sciences Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia
Private
Virginia
US $1,000

Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia

Our Community Foundation was established in Roanoke in 1988. With our growth, we expanded into the Martinsville/Henry County area in 2005. Today, we administer many hundreds of named endowment funds ranging in size from a minimum of $10,000 to millions of dollars. To date, donors have also committed very significant resources to the Foundation through future estate gifts.

Our Mission:Enabling people who love their community to easily give back.

Scholarships

Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, the region’s community foundation, administers a variety of scholarships to reward and assist capable and deserving students based on the criteria established by the fund donors.

Jefferson College of Health Sciences Scholarship Fund

Fund provides higher education scholarships to deserving students attending Radford University Carilion.

Education - Higher Education

AARP Community Challenge Grant: Demonstration Grant

AARP Foundation
Association/Society
Puerto Rico, United States +1 more
US $10,000 - US $25,000
The AARP Community Challenge Grant supports innovative projects that enhance community livability for people aged 50 and older. Funded by the AARP Foundation, these demonstration grants range from $10,000 to $25,000 and aim to improve pedestrian safety, expand broadband access, and reconnect divided communities. Since 2017, AARP has awarded over $20 million in grants, fostering immediate improvements and long-term progress across the United States, including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Senior Services

Cave Spring Lions Club Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia
Private
Roanoke City, Virginia, Roanoke County, Virginia +1 more
More than US $1,000

Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia

Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, the region’s community foundation, administers a variety of scholarships to reward and assist capable and deserving students based on the criteria established by the fund donors.

Cave Spring Lions Club Scholarship Fund

Fund provides college scholarships to graduating seniors currently attending a high school in Roanoke City, Roanoke County, Salem, Vinton or home schooled students in these areas. The following criteria will be used as the basis for the scholarship awards: applicant’s prior academic performance; applicant’s performance on accepted tests designed to measure aptitude and ability for college work; and applicant’s prior leadership performance.

ESSAY TOPIC: Explain your view on leadership/volunteerism and the role that it has played in your life. (Maximum two pages)

Academic Scholarship Programs

Clarissa Edwards Noland Memorial Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia
Private
Botetourt County, Virginia, Roanoke City, Virginia +2 more
More than US $2,000

Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia

Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, the region’s community foundation, administers a variety of scholarships to reward and assist capable and deserving students based on the criteria established by the fund donors.

Clarissa Edwards Noland Memorial Scholarship Fund

Fund provides educational scholarships to deserving students intending to pursue a career in teaching or creative writing.

ESSAY TOPIC: What are your educational plans? What are your reasons for pursuing a career in Creative Writing or Teaching? (Maximum 500 words.)

Academic Scholarship Programs

Dianne E. H. Wilcox Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia
Private
Virginia
More than US $1,000

Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia

Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, the region’s community foundation, administers a variety of scholarships to reward and assist capable and deserving students based on the criteria established by the fund donors.

Dianne E. H. Wilcox Scholarship Fund

Fund provides higher education scholarship assistance to students pursuing an undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral degree

Academic Scholarship Programs

Eddie Simpson Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia
Private
Virginia
More than US $1,500

Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia

Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, the region’s community foundation, administers a variety of scholarships to reward and assist capable and deserving students based on the criteria established by the fund donors.

Eddie Simpson Scholarship Fund

Fund provides higher education scholarship assistance to very deserving young men and women pursuing an undergraduate degree.

Academic Scholarship Programs

Ethel Snidow Holland Memorial Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia
Private
Botetourt County, Virginia, Craig County, Virginia +4 more
More than US $1,000

Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia

Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, the region’s community foundation, administers a variety of scholarships to reward and assist capable and deserving students based on the criteria established by the fund donors.

Ethel Snidow Holland Memorial Scholarship Fund

Fund provides scholarship assistance for Roanoke Valley high school graduates who wish to continue their education in a college, university, or vocational field.

Academic Scholarship Programs

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.