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Best Private Grants for Nonprofits

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

32,000+

Available grants

$8.25B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

32,000+ grants
$8.25B total
$6K median

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Filters

32,423 Results based on applied filters

NCC Foundation: Spring Semester Scholarship

Norwalk Community College (NCC) Foundation
Association/Society
Connecticut
Unspecified amount
The NCC Foundation offers the Spring Semester Scholarship to support Fairfield County residents enrolled in degree or credit certificate programs at CT State Norwalk. This scholarship provides tuition assistance for the Spring semester, and eligible students must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.80 and complete at least 12 credits by the end of the fall semester. This initiative aims to enhance access to quality higher education and foster student success.
Education - Higher Education

Peter Matthews Scholarship

Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut
Private
United States
Approximately US $500
The Peter Matthews Scholarship, established by the children of Peter Matthews, supports students from Southeastern Connecticut pursuing education at accredited four-year liberal arts colleges. With a generous fund of over $11.9 million awarded since 1983 by the Community Foundation, this scholarship offers approximately $500 to help cover educational expenses. Awards are paid directly to colleges by August 1, fostering a commitment to learning and career development.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants in New Mexico

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
New Mexico
Unspecified amount
The Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants in New Mexico provide crucial funding to organizations that assist low-income families in constructing their own homes through cooperative efforts. Participants receive guidance and technical support as they work together, fostering community development and self-sufficiency. This program emphasizes the importance of empowering families in rural areas to build affordable housing while promoting economic stability and homeownership.
Real Estate & Housing

Richard W. Cuniff Study Abroad Award

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Gallatin County, Montana
Unspecified amount
The Richard W. Cuniff Study Abroad Award, offered by Montana State University, provides financial support to students pursuing degrees at the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. Eligible applicants must be Montana high school graduates with a minimum 2.5 GPA and accepted into a study abroad program. This award aims to enhance educational experiences through international study while demonstrating financial need.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants in New York

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
New York
Unspecified amount
The Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants in New York provide essential funding to qualified organizations for local self-help housing projects. These grants enable very-low- and low-income families to construct their own homes with guidance and technical assistance. Eligible applicants include government and private non-profit organizations as well as federally recognized tribes. The program fosters community collaboration and provides families with the skills needed to manage their housing construction efforts effectively.
Real Estate & Housing

Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants in North Dakota

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
North Dakota
Unspecified amount
The Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants in North Dakota provide essential funding to qualified organizations that assist low-income families in constructing their own homes. These grants enable local organizations to offer technical and supervisory support throughout the construction process, fostering community and self-reliance. Eligible applicants include government non-profits and federally-recognized Tribes, ensuring that resources are directed towards those in need of housing assistance. This program ultimately aims to enhance rural housing initiatives.
Real Estate & Housing

Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants in Ohio

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants in Ohio support local organizations in assisting low-income families to construct their own homes in rural areas. Grant recipients provide essential technical and supervisory assistance, enabling families to engage in the building process. This program fosters community development and empowers participants through self-help housing initiatives, ensuring they gain valuable skills while improving their living conditions.
Real Estate & Housing

Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants in North Carolina

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
North Carolina
Unspecified amount
The Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants in North Carolina provide essential funding to organizations that aid low-income families in constructing their homes. Through local self-help projects, families work together under the guidance of grant recipients, who offer technical assistance. This initiative not only empowers communities but also promotes affordable housing in rural areas, ensuring that families have the support needed for successful home construction.
Real Estate & Housing

Professional Grants Program - General Grant Category

National Athletic Trainers Assn Research & Education Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $50,000
The NATA Foundation, established in 1991, is dedicated to advancing the athletic training profession through research and education. It offers the Professional Grants Program to support exceptional research projects relevant to athletic training. With a funding limit of $50,000 over three years, the program encourages diverse proposals, ensuring that the primary or co-primary investigator is a BOC certified athletic trainer. This initiative aims to enhance the profession and benefit the broader physically active community.
Kinesiology & Sports Medicine

NATA: Professional Grants Program - New Investigator Grant

National Athletic Trainers Assn Research & Education Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $20,000
The NATA Foundation's Professional Grants Program - New Investigator Grant offers up to $20,000 in funding for innovative research projects in athletic training. This program is aimed at supporting new investigators who are NATA members and BOC certified athletic trainers. The grant fosters research that enhances the profession and contributes to the health and safety of physically active individuals, promoting evidence-based practices in athletic training.
Kinesiology & Sports Medicine

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

Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants in Oregon

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Oregon
Unspecified amount
The Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants in Oregon provide crucial funding to organizations that assist low-income families in constructing their homes through cooperative effort. Grant recipients aid these families by offering technical and supervisory support, ensuring they can successfully build homes in rural areas. This initiative not only fosters community engagement but also empowers families by allowing them to take an active role in the construction process.
Real Estate & Housing

Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants in Pennsylvania

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants in Pennsylvania provide essential funding to organizations that support very-low- and low-income families in constructing their own homes in rural areas. These grants enable recipients to offer technical assistance and supervision as families collaborate in building each other’s homes. Eligible applicants include government non-profits, federally-recognized tribes, and private non-profits. Funds are not allowed for hiring construction workers or purchasing materials.
Real Estate & Housing

AAF Dallas Foundation Scholarship Fund

Communities Foundation of Texas
Private
Collin County, Texas, Cooke County, Texas +9 more
Up to US $2,000
The AAF Dallas Foundation Scholarship Fund offers up to $2,000 in one-year scholarships for current college students pursuing degrees in advertising and marketing. Established in 1953 by the Communities Foundation of Texas, this fund supports eligible students classified as sophomores, juniors, or graduate students with a minimum 3.0 GPA from specific Texas counties. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or documented residents, ensuring accessibility for those committed to their academic and professional futures.
Academic Scholarship Programs

General James H. Doolittle Scholarship

Communities Foundation of Texas
Private
United States
Up to US $5,000
The General James H. Doolittle Scholarship, administered by the Communities Foundation of Texas, offers scholarships up to $5,000 for college juniors, seniors, or graduate students majoring in aerospace science, aeronautical engineering, or related fields. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75 and have completed at least 52 college credit hours. This scholarship opportunity aims to support the educational aspirations of students pursuing careers in the aerospace industry.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Gigi and Louise Gartner Scholarship

Communities Foundation of Texas
Private
United States
Up to US $10,000
The Gigi and Louise Gartner Scholarship provides scholarships of up to $10,000 for high school seniors and college students from Dallas County, TX. Applicants must pursue degrees in holistic medicine or related fields, maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and be U.S. citizens or legal residents. This initiative, supported by the Communities Foundation of Texas, aims to empower students in their educational journeys and promote careers in integrative health and wellness.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Lawrence “Larry” Cole Memorial Scholarship

Communities Foundation of Texas
Private
Archer County, Texas, Armstrong County, Texas +99 more
Up to US $6,000
The Lawrence "Larry" Cole Memorial Scholarship, established in partnership with Communities Foundation of Texas, offers annual scholarships up to $6,000 for Texas students pursuing degrees in machining or manufacturing fields. Eligible candidates include graduating high school seniors, current college students, and adult learners who maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. This scholarship aims to support individuals committed to advancing their education in these essential technology sectors.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Greystar Scholars Fund

Communities Foundation of Texas
Private
United States
Up to US $5,000
The Greystar Scholars Fund, managed by Communities Foundation of Texas, offers scholarships up to $5,000 for high school seniors and college students who are dependents of Greystar team members. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 and be pursuing a degree at accredited institutions in the U.S. Notably, dependents of high-ranking executives are excluded from eligibility. This initiative aims to support education and empower families within the Greystar community.
Academic Scholarship Programs

NATA: Doctoral Student Grants Program

National Athletic Trainers Assn Research & Education Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $2,500
The NATA Doctoral Student Grants Program, offered by the National Athletic Trainers’ Association Foundation, provides financial support for innovative research projects in athletic training. Each year, multiple awards of up to $2,500 are available, with funding limited to direct costs over a maximum of one year. This initiative aims to enhance the profession through research, benefiting athletic trainers and the broader physically active community.
Kinesiology & Sports Medicine

Joan H. Hensley Scholarship

Communities Foundation of Texas
Private
United States
Up to US $5,000
The Joan H. Hensley Scholarship, established by Communities Foundation of Texas, aims to support graduating high school seniors or past graduates from Dallas County. It provides scholarships for those pursuing degrees at accredited trade or vocational schools or community colleges. Eligible candidates are evaluated based on school and community involvement, leadership potential, financial need, and an essay response. This initiative has been fostering educational opportunities since 1953, contributing to the growth of thriving communities.
Academic Scholarship Programs

ECLAT Foundation Scholarship

Communities Foundation of Texas
Private
Texas
US $2,000
The ECLAT Foundation Scholarship, offered by the Communities Foundation of Texas, provides $2,000 scholarships to graduating seniors and college students in Texas. Eligible applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.5 for high school or 3.0 for college, and meet certain residency criteria. This scholarship aims to support students pursuing a baccalaureate degree at accredited institutions in Texas, fostering educational opportunities and community growth.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Woody and Gayle Hunt - Aspen Institute Fellowship

The Aspen Institute Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Woody and Gayle Hunt - Aspen Institute Fellowship aims to empower exceptional leaders from the Borderplex Region by providing financial support for participation in leadership development programs. This initiative focuses on expanding Latino prosperity and fostering economic connections between the U.S., Latin America, and Spain. Fellows gain vital skills and networks through public events and seminars, positioning them to make significant contributions to their communities and advance the common good.
Civic Leadership Development

William A. Turner, Jr. Endowed Scholarship

Communities Foundation of Texas
Private
Denton County, Texas
US $5,000 - US $6,000
The William A. Turner, Jr. Endowed Scholarship, established in 1953 by the Communities Foundation of Texas, offers financial support of $5,000 to $6,000 for enrolled Juniors and Seniors at the University of North Texas pursuing a degree in the College of Education. Recipients must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.50 and commit to working in the Texas Public School system. This scholarship aims to foster the development of future educators and strengthen local communities.
Academic Scholarship Programs

NATA: Masters Student Grant Program

National Athletic Trainers Assn Research & Education Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $1,000
The NATA Masters Student Grant Program, facilitated by the NATA Foundation, supports innovative research projects by master's students in athletic training. With a funding limit of $1,000 for one year, this program emphasizes ethical research practices and collaboration with faculty mentors. Eligible applicants must be current master's students and members of NATA. The foundation aims to enhance the athletic training profession through research and education, fostering growth and development in healthcare.
Kinesiology & Sports Medicine

Infinite Hero Foundation Grant Program

Infinite Hero Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $100,000
The Infinite Hero Foundation Grant Program supports military personnel and their families by funding innovative treatment programs for service-related injuries. Since 2012, it has awarded over $5.7 million to 51 organizations focused on physical rehabilitation, mental health, leadership development, family support, and suicide prevention. Grants up to $100,000 are available for programs that align with the foundation's mission, ensuring that funds directly support program costs and not administrative expenses.
Military & Veterans Services Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

PA Heart & Soul Grant

Pennsylvania Humanities Council
Private
Pennsylvania
Up to US $50,000
The PA Heart & Soul Grant is a unique initiative aimed at empowering Pennsylvania communities with fewer than 30,000 residents. Through a comprehensive four-phase process—Imagine, Connect, Plan, and Act—residents engage in storytelling to shape action plans that reflect their town's identity. Selected towns can receive up to $50,000 over 2-3 years, along with expert coaching and training worth over $50,000 annually, fostering sustainable community development.
Community Culture & Heritage

Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants in Oklahoma

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Oklahoma
Unspecified amount
The Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants in Oklahoma support local organizations in facilitating self-help housing projects for low-income families. Grant recipients help groups of individuals construct their own homes, providing essential technical assistance throughout the process. Eligible applicants include government non-profits, federally-recognized tribes, and private non-profits. Funds can be used for supervision and technical support, but not for hiring construction workers or purchasing materials. This program aims to empower communities and promote homeownership.
Real Estate & Housing

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.

Last updated: October 5, 2026. Next update: November 1, 2026.

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.