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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

Norman Withrow Golf Scholarship

Marion Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Norman Withrow Golf Scholarship

The Norman Withrow Golf Scholarship Fund supports students from any Marion County high school who participate in varsity golf to attend the college or university of their choice.

Education - Higher Education

Nancy O. Whitaker Memorial Scholarship

Marion Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Nancy O. Whitaker Memorial Scholarship

The Nancy O. Whitaker Memorial Scholarship is available to students pursing an education in the field of speech and hearing, including research, treatment, education, and cures for people who suffer from speech and hearing impairments and diseases.

The Whitaker Scholarship is open to high school seniors who have lived in Marion for at least the last two years. 

Education - Higher Education

The Ron Chang Lee for Excellence in Classroom Technology

Teachers Of English To Speakers Of Other Languages Inc
Association/Society
Algeria, American Samoa +33 more
US $1,000
The Ron Chang Lee for Excellence in Classroom Technology award recognizes three TESOL members for their innovative use of technology in English Language Teaching. Established in 2018, the award offers prizes of $1000 for first place, $750 for second, and $500 for third. Eligible candidates must be TESOL members with at least two years of classroom experience and have designed the materials used for this award. Applications from certain countries may be ineligible due to international regulations.
English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Education

Mary Ellen Withrow Scholarship

Marion Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Mary Ellen Withrow Scholarship

Marion’s “favorite daughter,” Mary Ellen Withrow, the 40th Treasurer of the United States, created a scholarship fund in 2016 for female students from any Marion County high school, with special consideration for those pursuing the fields of finance or political science. 

Education - Higher Education

Marion Women’s Business Council Scholarship

Marion Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Marion Women’s Business Council Scholarship

The Marion Women’s Business Council created this scholarship fund in 2017 from member contributions to support future women in business. 

The Women’s Business Council Scholarship Fund annually awards a scholarship to a female student from a Marion County high school pursuing studies in business, finance, economics, marketing, management, advertising, accounting, human resources, or entrepreneurship.

Education - Higher Education

Coldwater Community Schools Enrichment Fund Mini Grants

Branch County Community Foundation
Private
Branch County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Coldwater Community Schools Enrichment Fund Mini Grants, managed by the Branch County Community Foundation, provide vital funding for innovative educational projects in Coldwater Community Schools. These grants support teachers in developing new academic enrichment programs that enhance traditional learning. With one competitive grant cycle annually, the initiative aims to foster creativity and improve educational outcomes for students, ensuring a brighter future for the community.
Teacher Development & Training

TESOL Award for Excellence in Research

Teachers Of English To Speakers Of Other Languages Inc
Association/Society
Algeria, American Samoa +33 more
US $3,000
The TESOL Award for Excellence in Research honors outstanding empirical research in language teaching and learning, promoting advancements in English language education. Sponsored by Dr. Deborah Short, this award includes a $1,500 grant, an additional $1,500 for conference expenses, a featured session at the TESOL convention, keynote speaking opportunity at the Graduate Student Forum, a one-year subscription to TESOL Quarterly, and a featured article in TESOL Connections.
English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Education

Nathalie Y. Lee Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Nathalie Y. Lee Scholarship Fund, established in 2022, provides financial support to students pursuing higher education in Hawaii. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, and be residents of Hawaii. Preference is given to full-time students of Chinese ancestry, first-generation college attendees, and those who have been involved in the foster care system. Previous recipients may reapply if they continue to meet eligibility requirements.
Education - Higher Education

TESOL Teacher of the Year Award

Teachers Of English To Speakers Of Other Languages Inc
Association/Society
Algeria, American Samoa +33 more
US $1,000
The TESOL Teacher of the Year Award, presented by National Geographic Learning, honors exceptional English language teachers who have demonstrated outstanding dedication in the classroom for at least three consecutive years. The winner receives $1,000, a one-year TESOL membership, and free registration for the TESOL International Convention, including travel accommodations. This recognition not only highlights the importance of teaching excellence but also fosters a community of learning and collaboration among educators around the world.
English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Education

Nancy Saunders Medical Education Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Nancy Saunders Medical Education Fund, established in 2019, aims to support graduate students pursuing advanced degrees in medicine, including MDs, DOs, PAs, and NPs. Applicants must be Hawaii residents, demonstrate financial need, and maintain full-time enrollment at accredited institutions. Preference is given to those with a minimum GPA of 3.0, residents of Maui, and individuals intending to practice in Maui post-graduation. This fund seeks to enhance medical education accessibility for dedicated students.
Medical Education & Professional Training

Rewarding Responders Grant

We Energies Foundation Inc
Private
Adams County, Wisconsin, Alger County, Michigan +61 more
Up to US $2,000
The Rewarding Responders Grant, offered by the We Energies Foundation, supports local public safety agencies with funding up to $2,000 per project. Eligible projects include equipment purchases and professional training that enhance safety initiatives within the communities served by the foundation. Grants must be utilized within two years, and projects should be special, one-time efforts. This initiative emphasizes the importance of safety and well-planned public safety responses.
First Responders

Jeannette Turner Memorial Scholarship

Marion Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Jeannette Turner Memorial Scholarship

Dorothy Ellen Thew, a lifelong member of the Marion community, left, as part of her legacy, a gift to create three scholarship funds at Marion Community Foundation. A noteworthy person in her own right, Dorothy designated that three scholarship funds be created from her estate to honor beloved members of her family. The Jeannette Turner Memorial Scholarship, created in 2010, honors her aunt’s work as a teacher at the former Silver Street Elementary School.

Education - Higher Education

CFTV: Opportunity Fund

The Community Foundation of Jackson Hole
Private
Teton County, Idaho, Teton County, Wyoming
Unspecified amount
The Community Emergency Response Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Teton Valley, provides financial assistance to community members affected by emergencies. This fund is part of the Foundation's Opportunity Fund, which aims to elevate lives through generosity and support for the nonprofit sector. Residents in need are encouraged to reach out for assistance to navigate these challenging times.
Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid

Mary F. Curtis Scholarship

Pike County Community Foundation
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $14,840

Pike County Community Foundation

The Community Foundation is a charitable resource devoted to our local community. We help people make meaningful gifts that improve life in Pike County, Indiana today and for generations to come.

The Community Foundation can help you...

  • Make a difference where it matters
  • Invest in the future of the community you love
  • Create greater good together

Mary F. Curtis Scholarship

Annual, renewable scholarship established by the estate of Sammy K. Curtis, in memory of his aunt, Miss Mary F. Curtis, a beloved 2nd grade teacher at Winslow Elementary School.

Award Amount

  • $3,710

Renewal Details

  • May be renewable for up to four consecutive years. Renewal award amounts may differ from the original award.
Education - Higher Education

Joseph & Alice Duarte Memorial Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Joseph & Alice Duarte Memorial Fund, established in 2002 by Patrick Duarte, honors his parents and supports graduates of Holualoa Elementary School from Hawaii Island. This fund prioritizes applicants who demonstrate financial need and maintain good academic standing, specifically those from North or South Kona. Preference is given to previous recipients if they continue to meet eligibility criteria. The fund aims to empower local students by providing financial assistance for their educational pursuits.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Community Foundation of West Alabama: Education Grant

Community Foundation of West Alabama
Private
Bibb County, Alabama, Fayette County, Alabama +7 more
Up to US $500
The Community Foundation of West Alabama, established in 1999, supports charitable initiatives that benefit the West Alabama community. As a private non-profit organization, it aims to fund various projects while adhering to specific eligibility criteria. Grants are not available for individuals, political purposes, or regular operating expenses, ensuring funds are directed towards impactful community enhancements. This foundation prioritizes innovative projects that address pressing local needs and foster educational growth.
Education - K through 12

Claud W. and Lois Kemp Family Scholarship

Pike County Community Foundation
Association/Society
Indiana
US $2,120

Pike County Community Foundation

The Community Foundation is a charitable resource devoted to our local community. We help people make meaningful gifts that improve life in Pike County, Indiana today and for generations to come.

The Community Foundation can help you...

  • Make a difference where it matters
  • Invest in the future of the community you love
  • Create greater good together

Claud W. and Lois Kemp Family Scholarship

Annual, renewable scholarship fund established by Jerry D. Kemp to remember his grandparents, Claud W. and Lois (Corn) Kemp. Mr. and Mrs. Kemp were lifelong residents of Pike County. Claud Kemp was a long time teacher and principal at Velpen School in Velpen, IN. This scholarship is dedicated to Mr. Kemp and his enthusiasm for education.

Award Amount

  • $1,060

Renewal Details

  • May be renewable for a second year provided student continues to attend a 4-year college or university in Indiana.  Renewal award amounts may differ from the original award. 
Education - Higher Education

Jamon L. Burchett Memorial Scholarship

Perry County Community Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,490

Perry County Community Foundation

The Community Foundation is a charitable resource devoted to our local community. We help people make meaningful gifts that improve life in Perry County, Indiana today and for generations to come.

The Community Foundation can help you...

  • Make a difference where it matters
  • Invest in the future of the community you love
  • Create greater good together

Jamon L. Burchett Memorial Scholarship

An annual, renewable scholarship established in memory of Jamon L. Burchett by his parents, Rich and Julie, and his brother, Travis, to honor Jamon's love for electrical repair.

Award Amount

  • $1,490

Renewal Details

May be renewable for a second year provided student continues to pursue education or training in a vocational field (i.e. auto mechanics, welding, electrical, plumbing, etc.) and remains in good standing with his or her college or university. Renewal award amounts may differ from the original award.

Vocational & Trade Education

Quincy Educational Endowment Mini Grant

Branch County Community Foundation
Private
Branch County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Quincy Educational Endowment Mini Grant, offered by the Branch County Community Foundation, supports teachers in Quincy Community Schools by providing funding for academic enrichment programs. This grant aims to enhance educational opportunities for students, fostering a better learning environment. With one competitive grant cycle per year, the initiative is dedicated to making a significant impact on the community's educational landscape. Apply to contribute to the growth and development of local students.
Teacher Development & Training

OSGC Informal Education Innovation Proposal (IEIP)

Ohio Space Grant Consortium
Private
Ohio
Up to US $2,500
The Ohio Space Grant Consortium (OSGC) is dedicated to promoting STEM education through the Informal Education Innovation Proposal (IEIP). Established in 1989, OSGC supports a diverse network of institutions to enhance public engagement in NASA-related projects. With a focus on cost-sharing and collaboration, the IEIP aims to advance informal education initiatives that benefit the community. Funding is limited to $2,500 and is contingent on availability, making this a vital opportunity for fostering scientific literacy.
STEM / STEAM Education

John & Anne Clifton Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The John & Anne Clifton Scholarship Fund, established in 2002, supports residents of Hawaii by providing financial assistance to students with demonstrated need and a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to past recipients who maintain eligibility and good academic standing. This fund, managed by the Hawai'i Community Foundation, aims to recognize and support students exhibiting academic merit and good character, ensuring continued educational opportunities for deserving individuals.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Folklife Artist Grant

Nevada Arts Council (NAC)
State/Local Government
Nevada
Up to US $3,000
The Folklife Artist Grant from the Nevada Arts Council supports traditional arts projects led by folk artists and culture bearers. Projects should focus on the transmission of folk arts within specific Nevada communities, covering learning and presentation activities. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, including federal tax-exempt status and good standing with the Nevada Secretary of State. Grants are awarded based on eligibility and funding availability, emphasizing artistic merit and community representation.
Folk Art / Traditional Art

United Punjabis of America Excellence in Community Service Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley
Private
DeKalb County, Illinois, DuPage County, Illinois +5 more
US $1,000

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.

United Punjabis of America Excellence in Community Service Scholarship Fund

This scholarship in the amount of $1,000 will be awarded annually to two eligible applicants. This scholarship is a one-year award and is non-renewable.

Education - Higher Education

'Imi Ho'ola Leadership Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Honolulu County, Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The 'Imi Ho'ola Leadership Scholarship Fund, established in 2015, supports medical students enrolled in the Imi Ho'ola Post Baccalaureate Program at UH Manoa JABSOM. Eligible applicants must be Hawaii residents, demonstrate financial need, and have a minimum GPA of 2.0. They must also be full-time students accepted into the program and provide a recommendation letter highlighting their leadership qualities. This scholarship aims to foster future healthcare leaders.
Medical Education & Professional Training

OSGC Mini-Grant Program

Ohio Space Grant Consortium
Private
Ohio
Up to US $1,000
The OSGC Mini-Grant Program supports innovative STEM projects for Ohio K-12 teachers, offering up to $1,000 in funding with a required 1:1 cost share. This initiative encourages proposals that promote STEM education, have a lasting impact, and are replicable. Eligible projects may include purchasing materials or supporting field trips, provided they feature structured STEM programming. Applications are particularly welcomed from schools in urban and rural areas, with all awards contingent on available funding.
STEM / STEAM Education

Jane C. Waldbaum Archaeological Field School Scholarship

Archaeological Institute of America
Association/Society
Canada, United States
US $2,000
The Jane C. Waldbaum Archaeological Field School Scholarship, established by the Archaeological Institute of America, supports students participating in archaeological fieldwork for the first time. With a funding amount of $1000, this scholarship is aimed at junior and senior undergraduates and first-year graduate students who are studying archaeology or related disciplines. Eligible applicants must be at least 18 years old and demonstrate academic achievement and financial need.
Archaeology

KCI Rotary Scholarship

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Platte County, Missouri
US $1,000

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

KCI Rotary Scholarship

This fund was established by the KCI Rotary Educational Foundation to provide academic scholarships to graduating seniors of high schools located in Platte County.

Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis and disbursed in equal payments in August and January.

Minimum of $1,000 annually to be paid in the fall semester for up to four consecutive years (students must submit grades to GKCCF).

Vocational & Trade Education

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.