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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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32,600 Results based on applied filters

William E. Barto Scholarship Fund

Boreal Waters Community Foundation
Private
Douglas County, Wisconsin, St. Louis County, Minnesota
Up to US $16,000
The William E. Barto Scholarship Fund, established in 1995, honors the legacy of William E. Barto, a former Navy serviceman and artist. This fund provides $4,000 annually for up to four years, supporting students pursuing a degree in the Arts. Eligible applicants must be graduates from select high schools in northeastern Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin, maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and demonstrate financial need. The fund is managed by Boreal Waters Community Foundation.
Academic Scholarship Programs

New Glarus Excellence in Education Fund

The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin
Private
Green County, Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The New Glarus Excellence in Education Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, supports the New Glarus School District with private resources. This endowment fund enhances educational opportunities beyond the standard budget, ensuring quality education for current and future students. Donations are welcome year-round and are tax-deductible, making a meaningful impact on the community. Grants are awarded annually for special projects that enrich the learning environment.
Education Recreation

Monticello Excellence in Education Fund

The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin
Private
Green County, Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Monticello Excellence in Education Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, supports the Monticello School District through grants awarded annually. This endowment fund enhances educational opportunities by providing resources for programs not typically covered by public funding. Donations are welcome year-round and are tax-deductible, making them a meaningful way to invest in the future of education in Southern Wisconsin.
Education Recreation

Cuba City-City of Presidents Endowment Fund

The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin
Private
Grant County, Wisconsin, Lafayette County, Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Cuba City-City of Presidents Endowment Fund aims to provide enduring support for community projects, enhancing the beauty of Cuba City. Key initiatives include the Veterans Memorial and local beautification efforts. This fund welcomes diverse contributions, including cash, real estate, and securities, ensuring a legacy of support for future generations. As the endowment grows, it will empower ongoing projects that celebrate and preserve the unique character of Cuba City.
Greening & Beautification

Youth as Resources Grants

Door County Community Foundation
Private
Door County, Wisconsin
US $200 - US $500
The Youth as Resources Grants provide financial support to youth-led projects that aim to serve or educate the community in Door County. Grants typically range from $200 to $500, with exceptional projects potentially receiving more. Any youth group primarily composed of Door County residents is eligible to apply, fostering engagement and development of youth skills while benefiting the local area.
Youth Services

RFP: Teacher Training Projects for Accredited or Nearly Accredited Preschools in Hawaii

Samuel N & Mary Castle Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Up to US $25,000
The Samuel N. and Mary Castle Foundation invites proposals for teacher training projects aimed at accredited or nearly accredited preschools in Hawaii. With grants up to $25,000, the Foundation supports initiatives that enhance teacher quality and retention, ensuring educators receive the necessary training. Eligible preschools must demonstrate commitment to faculty development and provide evidence of tax-exempt status. This initiative addresses the growing demand for well-trained preschool educators, ultimately benefiting children's educational outcomes.
Teacher Development & Training

Women’s Fund of Door County Community Grants

Door County Community Foundation
Private
Door County, Wisconsin
Approximately US $5,000
The Women’s Fund of Door County Community Grants support initiatives that empower women and girls through education, self-esteem building, and addressing critical issues with research-based solutions. Charities serving this demographic in Door County are encouraged to apply, especially those focusing on inclusivity and innovative approaches. With no set grant limits, the program typically awards around $5,000 per grant cycle, promoting lasting impacts within the community.
Women & Girl Services

Paul G. Silver Young Scholar Research Enhancement Award

Cecil H & Ida M Green Foundation for Earth Sciences
Private
San Diego County, California
Up to US $5,000
The Paul G. Silver Young Scholar Research Enhancement Award honors the legacy of Paul G. Silver by providing funding between $2000-$5000 to young scholars, including undergraduates and graduate students, pursuing innovative geophysical research at Scripps Institution of Oceanography. This award aims to support projects that extend beyond typical research boundaries, fostering creativity and mentorship in the field. Eligible candidates must demonstrate how this funding will facilitate new research opportunities and collaborations.
Geophysics

T. W. M. Cameron Outstanding Ph.D. Thesis Award

Canadian Society of Zoologists
Association/Society
Canada
Up to C $1,500
The T. W. M. Cameron Outstanding Ph.D. Thesis Award, established by the Canadian Society of Zoologists, recognizes exceptional Ph.D. theses in Zoology from Canadian universities. This award not only honors scholarly excellence but also promotes diversity and inclusion within the field. Recipients receive a commemorative scroll and are invited to present their work at the annual conference, with travel and accommodation expenses covered up to $1,500.
Zoology

Portland Arts Project Grant Program

Regional Arts & Culture Council
Private
Clackamas County, Oregon, Columbia County, Oregon +3 more
US $1,000 - US $10,000
The Portland Arts Project Grant Program, administered by the Regional Arts & Culture Council, aims to enhance artistic development and community engagement in Portland, Oregon. This program supports individual artists and organizations with funding ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 for projects that foster public participation in the arts. Eligible applicants must reside or operate within Portland city limits. The program prioritizes investment in under-represented communities, ensuring equitable access to the arts.
Arts / Culture Access & Participation

UMN Graduate School: Professional Development Funding Request

University of Minnesota
Private
Minnesota
Up to US $500
The UMN Graduate School offers Professional Development Funding to support graduate students engaged in opportunities that enhance their academic pursuits. Eligible activities include attending workshops, conferences, or learning new techniques. Funding amounts vary based on travel distance, with a maximum of $500 available. Applicants must be enrolled in research-based graduate programs and in good standing. This funding is available from September 1, 2025, to August 31, 2026, with applications accepted monthly.
Education - Higher Education

UMN Graduate School: Research Travel Requests (RTR)

University of Minnesota
Private
Minnesota
US $500 - US $3,000
The UMN Graduate School offers Research Travel Requests (RTR) for graduate students aiming to enhance their thesis or dissertation through research travel. Award amounts vary: up to $3,000 for doctoral candidates, $1,500 for pre-candidates, and $500 for master’s students. Applications are reviewed monthly from October to April, with a lottery system if demand exceeds funding. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a research-based graduate program and meet specific travel criteria.
Education - Higher Education

Immigration Legal Access Grant Program

City of Boston Office of Immigrant Advancement
State/Local Government
Suffolk County, Massachusetts
US $20,000 - US $100,000
The Immigration Legal Access Grant Program, initiated by the City of Boston Office of Immigrant Advancement, aims to provide essential legal assistance to immigrants navigating the complex U.S. immigration system. With a total funding of $900,000, this program supports nonprofit organizations that offer services such as legal orientation, consultations, and representation. By prioritizing organizations with licensed attorneys, the program seeks to enhance access to justice for Boston’s immigrant communities, especially in light of recent policy changes.
Immigrant Services

Loft Mentor Series

The Loft
Private
Minnesota
US $2,800
The Loft Mentor Series supports twelve early career writers in Minnesota to collaborate with eight acclaimed mentors in poetry and prose. This prestigious program, established in 1979, offers a year of intensive workshops and individual guidance, culminating in public readings. Funded by the Jerome Foundation and NEA, fellows receive $2,800 to assist with program costs, ensuring they can focus on refining their craft and connecting with the literary community.
Poetry

Dream Endowment

Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts
Private
Massachusetts
Unspecified amount
The Dream Endowment, offered by the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts, aims to support underprivileged immigrant students in their pursuit of higher education. This initiative is part of a larger effort to provide over 40 scholarship opportunities that cater to various educational needs in the region. By creating pathways to college, the Dream Endowment helps foster a brighter future for deserving students and reinforces the foundation's commitment to education and community growth.
Education - Higher Education

Jim O'Leary Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts
Private
Massachusetts
Unspecified amount
The Jim O'Leary Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts, provides financial support to high school seniors passionate about golf. This fund is part of a larger initiative that offers over 40 scholarships aimed at fostering educational opportunities in the region. With specific selection criteria set by the donors, the scholarship aims to empower students to achieve their academic goals and promote community involvement.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Rotary Club of Fitchburg Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts
Private
Worcester County, Massachusetts
Unspecified amount
The Rotary Club of Fitchburg Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts, provides financial support to graduating seniors in Fitchburg, MA, who have been recognized as Student of the Month. This initiative aims to encourage educational pursuits among local students and is part of a broader effort to foster community development through scholarship opportunities.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Samaritan Hospital Medical Staff/Ashland County Physicians Medical School Scholarship

Ashland County Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Samaritan Hospital Medical Staff/Ashland County Physicians Medical School Scholarship, established in 1996, offers two $1,500 scholarships to Ashland County residents pursuing MD or DO degrees at accredited medical schools in Ohio. This initiative reflects gratitude for past medical education and aims to encourage recipients to return to their community for practice. Eligible applicants can reapply for a maximum of four years, fostering a commitment to local healthcare.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Shelby County Commissioners Tindall Farm Fund Grant

Blue River Community Foundation of Shelby County
Private
Shelby County, Indiana
Up to US $7,500
The Shelby County Commissioners Tindall Farm Fund Grant aims to provide essential support for organizations meeting the basic needs of residents in Shelby County, including food, shelter, and clothing. With a maximum grant of $7,500 per request and up to $15,000 per organization annually, this fund is designed to assist those facing poverty and homelessness. Eligible applicants must be operating within Shelby County to qualify for funding.
Basic Human Needs

Canine Healthcare Fund Grant

National Disaster Search Dog Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $1,000
The Canine Healthcare Fund Grant provides vital medical coverage for SDF-trained canines throughout their lives, ensuring they receive top-notch veterinary care at no expense to their handlers or agencies. Additionally, it extends support to non-SDF-trained handlers of active and retired disaster search canines, covering veterinary costs for wellness, illness, and injury not funded by their organizations. Each handler may receive up to $1,000 annually to help manage these essential healthcare expenses.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Houston Affiliate Grantmaking Program

Community Foundation of the Ozarks Inc.
Private
Texas County, Missouri
Up to US $750
The Houston Affiliate Grantmaking Program, supported by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, aims to enhance the quality of life for Houston residents through impactful grantmaking. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and other IRS-approved entities serving the city. Organizations can apply for funding up to $1,300 to support their initiatives and community projects. This program emphasizes collaboration and leadership to foster community growth and development.
Economic Services & Development

Tony Marley Memorial Scholarship for a Teacher Education Major

Ashland County Community Foundation
Private
Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Tony Marley Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Ashland County public high schools who aim to pursue a degree in Teacher Education. This scholarship honors Tony Marley, a dedicated educator and World War II veteran. Eligible candidates must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and be accepted into an accredited four-year college or university in Ohio, ensuring that future educators receive the financial assistance they need to achieve their goals.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Watershed Fund: Environmental Education Grant Programs

The Watershed Fund
Private
Middlesex County, Connecticut, New Haven County, Connecticut
Up to US $12,500
The Watershed Fund offers Environmental Education Grants to organizations focused on preserving water quality and enhancing community appreciation for environmental resources. Grants, typically not exceeding $10,000, support projects that educate the public on the significance of watershed land and its impact on local ecosystems. Eligible applicants include non-profits, municipalities, and educational institutions within the South Central Connecticut Regional Water District. The program emphasizes measurable outcomes and collaboration with existing environmental education initiatives.
Environmental Education

Community Based Substance Use Disorders Services Access

North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS)
State/Local Government
North Carolina
Up to US $500,000
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) is offering grants for community-based services targeting substance use disorders. This initiative aims to expand access to essential services while addressing gaps in care across the state. Eligible organizations can apply for project budgets up to $500,000 annually, with at least 12 contracts expected to be awarded. The funding supports prevention, treatment, and support services to enhance the health and wellbeing of North Carolinians.
Addiction & Substance Use Disorders

YoungArts National Competition

YoungArts (National Foundation For Advancement In The Arts Inc.)
Association/Society
United States
US $250 - US $10,000
The YoungArts National Competition, established in 1981, supports exceptional young artists aged 15-18 in the U.S. through a competitive application process. Winners receive financial awards up to $10,000, mentorship from renowned artists, and lifelong artistic support. This prestigious program allows participants to affirm their identity as artists while gaining access to a robust network of peers and mentors, exclusive opportunities, and national recognition, making it a vital stepping stone in their creative journeys.
Arts / Culture Access & Participation

Trainee Investigator Award

American Academy Of Sleep Medicine Foundation
Private
United States
US $500 - US $1,000
The Trainee Investigator Award, offered by the AASM Foundation, recognizes outstanding research presented by AASM Student/Resident Members at the SLEEP annual meeting. This prestigious award includes a $1,000 prize for the top candidate, along with three honorable mentions each receiving $500. It aims to promote the professional growth of early-career researchers in sleep medicine, encouraging innovative contributions to the field. Nominations require submitting an abstract for the SLEEP 2026 meeting.
Sleep

IDeA Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence (INBRE)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
Alaska, Arkansas +22 more
Unspecified amount
The IDeA Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence (INBRE) program aims to enhance biomedical research capacity in underfunded states by fostering collaborations among research institutions. By supporting faculty research, mentoring, and student involvement, INBREs create pathways for undergraduate students to enter biomedical careers. This initiative not only promotes institutional partnerships but also strengthens research infrastructure, ultimately contributing to a more robust scientific community in IDeA states.
Biology Health & Medicine

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.