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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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32,483 Results based on applied filters

Elaine Laughlin Scholarship

The Community Foundation of Shelby County
Private
United States
US $1,000

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Elaine Laughlin Scholarship

Selection based upon (in order of priority):

Financial need, academic ability, demonstrated community and school service, and recommendations.

Awards

  • Two $1,000 scholarships
Education - Higher Education

Deadwood Fund Grant

South Dakota State Historical Society
Private
South Dakota
US $1,000 - US $25,000
The Deadwood Fund Grant, funded by gambling revenue in Deadwood, South Dakota, offers financial assistance ranging from $1,000 to $25,000 for projects aimed at restoring or rehabilitating historic buildings and sites. Eligible applicants include individuals and organizations that demonstrate adherence to the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation. Projects must provide public historic preservation benefits and often require a dollar-for-dollar match from non-federal sources, ensuring sustainable use after completion.
Historic Preservation

Leadership Development Institute Grant

American Medical Association Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

AMA Foundation

Founded in 1950, the AMA Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the American Medical Association. Its mission is to bring together physicians and communities to improve the nation's health. The AMA Foundation is dedicated to fostering leadership, providing crucial grant funding, offering valuable medical school tips and much more. It provides charitable grants to financially support innovative partnerships of physician-led, community-based agencies, including free clinics. It also recognizes and fosters the development of the next generation of physician leaders through scholarships, mentorship and ongoing training. At the heart of the AMA Foundation lies a commitment to forging connections between physicians and the communities they serve.

The AMA Foundation Leadership Development Institute

Program Overview

The Leadership Development Institute is dedicated to cultivating an aspiring cohort of physician leaders who are committed to their patients, their communities, and the future of health care.

Designed for medical students, this competitive, yearlong program provides participants with professional development opportunities and individualized mentorship from experienced physician leaders. Through the LDI, participants gain the tools, confidence, and perspective needed to navigate medical school, explore leadership pathways, and contribute to organized medicine throughout their careers.

What to Expect

  • Monthly virtual webinars
  • An in-person convening during the 2026 AMA House of Delegates Interim Meeting
  • A June culmination weekend during the 2027 AMA House of Delegates Annual Meeting
  • One-to-one mentorship with an experienced physician leader
  • Opportunities to build relationships with leaders across organized medicine

Medical Education & Professional Training

Society of the Order of the Southern Cross Grant

Order of the Southern Cross
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Society of the Order of the Southern Cross Grant aims to support charitable projects that preserve and restore Southern heritage artifacts and locations. Eligible projects may include military artifacts, monuments, and historical sites. Organizations typically need to secure 50% of necessary funding before applying. The Order encourages discussions for projects that may not meet standard funding levels, emphasizing their commitment to preserving cultural heritage.
Historic Preservation

Norton Healthcare James R. Petersdorf Dependent Scholarship

Norton Healthcare Inc
Private
United States
US $2,000

Norton Healthcare

For more than 130 years, Norton Healthcare’s faith heritage has guided its mission to provide quality health care to all those it serves. Today, Norton Healthcare is a leader in serving adult and pediatric patients from throughout Greater Louisville, Southern Indiana, the commonwealth of Kentucky and beyond.

Norton Healthcare Foundation

The Norton Healthcare Foundation raises funds to purchase new equipment, provide programs and education, and fund research that makes a difference for the more than 400,000 patients and their families who come to us for help each year.

Scholarships

Norton Healthcare is proud to offer a variety of scholarship opportunities designed to support the academic and professional growth of students pursuing careers in health care. These programs reflect our commitment to investing in the next generation of skilled, compassionate health care professionals. Whether you are beginning your educational journey or advancing your career, Norton Healthcare scholarship opportunities provide valuable financial assistance and recognition for your dedication to excellence in patient care and community health.

Norton Healthcare James R. Petersdorf Dependent Scholarship

Dependents of Norton Healthcare employees who are considering a degree in a health care-related field may be eligible for a $2,000 scholarship for the fall 2026 semester. These awards are made possible through the generosity of the James R. Petersdorf Fund.

Education - Higher Education

Asheville Wilbert Vault Service Scholarship

The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina
Private
United States
US $4,000
The Asheville Wilbert Vault Service Scholarship, established by The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, offers financial aid to residents pursuing a career in funeral services. This scholarship is aimed at individuals from the 18 westernmost counties of North Carolina, including the Qualla Boundary. Eligible applicants must be seniors in secondary school or graduates and can apply funds to any relevant post-high school educational program. This initiative reflects the foundation's commitment to supporting local communities.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Oregon Heritage Excellence Awards

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department
State/Local Government
Oregon
Unspecified amount
The Oregon Heritage Excellence Awards celebrate remarkable contributions to heritage preservation by individuals and organizations. Nominations for the 2026 awards will open in fall 2025, honoring outstanding efforts that inspire future work. This initiative, supported by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, emphasizes the importance of volunteers in maintaining Oregon's rich heritage, promoting inclusivity, and creating sustainable partnerships for the next century.
Community Culture & Heritage

O'Connor Youth Committee Grants

A. Lindsay and Olive B. O’Connor Foundation
Private
Broome County, New York, Chenango County, New York +6 more
Up to US $2,000
The A. Lindsay & Olive B. O’Connor Foundation offers grants up to $2,000 aimed at enhancing the lives of children and youth in Delaware County, NY. Eligible applicants include municipalities, religious organizations, and 501(c)(3) entities. However, individual applicants and proposals for debt repayment or completed projects are not considered. This initiative seeks to directly impact the community's quality of life.
Youth Services

Asheville Young Woman Leadership Award

The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina
Private
United States
US $1,000
The Asheville Young Woman Leadership Award, established by Dr. Andrea Gravatt, honors exceptional high school junior women in Buncombe County who exhibit remarkable leadership and community involvement. Funded by local women, this annual award aims to acknowledge these young leaders' achievements while inspiring future contributions to their communities. Recipients can utilize the funds for accredited post-high school education or enrichment programs, fostering a new generation of empowered female leaders.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Devin Aumend Memorial Scholarship

The Columbus Foundation
Private
United States
US $500

The Columbus Foundation

In 1943, during the darkness of World War II, a group of passionate citizens, led by Columbus businessman Harrison M. Sayre, envisioned a way to improve the well-being of the community and the quality of life in central Ohio. With little more than this sound idea and faith, The Columbus Foundation was established.

Our Mission

To assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

Devin Aumend Memorial Scholarship

The scholarship was created by Devin’s Mother, Denise Aumend. Despite her physical disability, Devin was always involved in her community through activities including 4-H, Girl Scouts, and church youth activities. Throughout her life, Devin overcame many challenges and obstacles due to her physical disability. This led her to become an independents and determined young lady, maintaining excellent grades throughout school, and earning the title of Valedictorian of her Highland High School class of 2003. Devin completed her Bachelor’s Degree with honors, and her Master’s degree with honors. The Devin Aumend Memorial Scholarship is her mother’s way of honoring Devin for many years to come.

Education - Higher Education

Amanda Rush Scholarship Fund for Future Leaders

The Columbus Foundation
Private
United States
US $2,500

The Columbus Foundation

In 1943, during the darkness of World War II, a group of passionate citizens, led by Columbus businessman Harrison M. Sayre, envisioned a way to improve the well-being of the community and the quality of life in central Ohio. With little more than this sound idea and faith, The Columbus Foundation was established.

Our Mission

To assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

Amanda Rush Scholarship Fund for Future Leaders

This fund was established to celebrate the life of Amanda Rush who tragically died on October 23, 2020. Amanda worked at White Castle for 14 years, working her way up to manager. This scholarship will support central Ohio restaurant employees or students going to school for restaurant management or hospitality.

Education - Higher Education

A. Gordon and Betty H. Imhoff Scholarship

The Columbus Foundation
Private
United States
US $6,000

The Columbus Foundation

In 1943, during the darkness of World War II, a group of passionate citizens, led by Columbus businessman Harrison M. Sayre, envisioned a way to improve the well-being of the community and the quality of life in central Ohio. With little more than this sound idea and faith, The Columbus Foundation was established.

Our Mission

To assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

A. Gordon and Betty H. Imhoff Scholarship

The scholarship supports students from Shelby High School. Gordon and Betty Imhoff were both graduates of Shelby High School and wanted to support students from the school as they further their education.

Education - Higher Education

Butler County Area Foundation Fund Scholarship

Nebraska Community Foundation
Private
United States
US $500

Nebraska Community Foundation

Nebraska Community Foundation was established in 1994 by a group of visionaries determined to empower communities throughout the state to grow and prosper. They believed that with the right tools and resources, people could build the hometowns of their dreams.

Through philanthropy, our team helps communities develop strong local economies, high quality of life, and abundant leadership and volunteer opportunities. We empower local leaders to identify community assets, invest in their own resources, and bring about their own positive change. 

BCAFF Scholarships

The Butler County Area Foundation Fund is offering three scholarships to graduating seniors who meet individual scholarship criteria. These scholarships are the Butler County Clinic Scholarship (medical field major); Charles O. & Grace M. Stoops Scholarship in Agricultural or Environmental Studies; and Butler County Area Foundation Fund Scholarship.

Butler County Area Foundation Fund Scholarship

  • Two $500 scholarships are available annually to graduating residents of Butler County.
  • Applicants must be entering his or her first semester of post-secondary education at an accredited school of higher education, or an applicant may be a current year graduate or an earlier graduate resident of Butler County who may have delayed entrance into post-secondary education at an accredited school of higher education.

Education - Higher Education

Colorado Wildlife Rehabilitation Grants

Colorado Parks & Wildlife
State/Local Government
Colorado
More than US $1,000
The Colorado Wildlife Rehabilitation Grants program, offered by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, supports wildlife rehabilitation efforts across the state. The program prioritizes licensed wildlife rehabilitators and considers factors like species rehabilitated, project feasibility, and cost-effectiveness. It aims to enhance wildlife care through funding for food, infrastructure upgrades, and public education, while ineligible expenses include salaries and lobbying. Preference is given to established facilities, ensuring effective use of grant funds.
Wildlife Rehabilitation & Sanctuaries

Raymond Bravo Scholarship

Coral Gables Community Foundation
Private
United States
US $3,500

Coral Gables Community Foundation

Led by community leaders, the Coral Gables Community Foundation provides the philanthropic conduit to connect individuals and corporations looking to positively impact the success of the community. Now in its 33rd year, the Foundation has been at the forefront of the evolving needs of Coral Gables while effectively bringing together beneficiaries and benefactors to fund programs with the greatest impact and benefit to “The City Beautiful.”

Coral Gables Community Foundation’s Scholarships Program

Coral Gables Community Foundation is honored to partner with our fundholders to administer generous scholarships as well as manage the Foundation’s own scholarship funds.

The Foundation and its fundholders have proudly awarded over $6.7 million in scholarships in just the last decade.

The Raymond Bravo Scholarship

The Raymond Bravo Foundation, established at the Coral Gables Community Foundation in 2025, honors the memory and generous spirit of Raymond Bravo, a proud Miami High alumnus and successful lawyer.

The Fund is dedicated to extending a helping hand to needful students from any high school in Miami Dade County Public Schools.

Rooted in Raymond’s belief that success requires hard work, natural ability, and help from others, the Fund seeks to ensure that financial difficulty does not prevent students from achieving their educational goals and professional dreams. Through scholarship awards, The Raymond Bravo Fund provides tuition support, empowering students to pursue higher education and realize their fullest potential.

Education - Higher Education

Albright Gemlick Scholarship

Parkview Health Foundation
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount

Parkview Health Foundation

The Parkview Health Foundation plays a vital role in supporting Parkview Health and its ability to provide expert, specialized healthcare to our entire region. As the area’s largest health system, Parkview Health serves a population of more than 1.3 million in northeast Indiana and northwest Ohio.

Since 1878, charitable giving has been an important part of Parkview’s ability to deliver excellent care for every person, every day. The Parkview Health Foundation helps ensure philanthropic donations are used to support Parkview patients and the community at large by enhancing the patient experience through comfort and healing.

Scholarships

Helping train and educate the next generation of Parkview caregivers is an important part of our purpose. Through the generosity of donors, we are able to offer scholarships to Parkview co-workers and area students who are pursuing their nursing degrees or EMT certifications — helping ensure the excellence in care continues.

Albright Gemlick Scholarship

Beginning in 2003, the Albright Gemlick Scholarship has honored remarkable senior high school student athletes. Dr. James E. Albright was a driving force behind the establishment of the SportONE Athletic Training program in 1990. He was committed to the safety and care of student athletes, serving as a team physician for several local high schools and colleges. Dr. Brett F. Gemlick continued Dr. Albright's commitment to serving area athletic teams throughout his time as an orthopedic surgeon in Northeast Indiana.

The Albright Gemlick Scholarship is made possible by the generosity of donors through the Parkview Foundation. Up to eight scholarships can be awarded to local high school athletes annually. Award winners of this scholarship will receive four years of funding support to pursue their undergraduate degree.

Each PSM high school may nominate up to two students from their high school. Club athletic trainers may nominate up to three students from their club.

Education - Higher Education

Parkview Huntington Spirit of Service Scholarship

Parkview Health Foundation
Association/Society
United States
US $1,500

Parkview Health Foundation

The Parkview Health Foundation plays a vital role in supporting Parkview Health and its ability to provide expert, specialized healthcare to our entire region. As the area’s largest health system, Parkview Health serves a population of more than 1.3 million in northeast Indiana and northwest Ohio.

Since 1878, charitable giving has been an important part of Parkview’s ability to deliver excellent care for every person, every day. The Parkview Health Foundation helps ensure philanthropic donations are used to support Parkview patients and the community at large by enhancing the patient experience through comfort and healing.

Scholarships

Helping train and educate the next generation of Parkview caregivers is an important part of our purpose. Through the generosity of donors, we are able to offer scholarships to Parkview co-workers and area students who are pursuing their nursing degrees or EMT certifications — helping ensure the excellence in care continues.

Parkview Huntington Spirit of Service Scholarship

The Parkview Huntington Spirit of Service Scholarship – This scholarship was initially funded by a portion of a legacy gift from the Parkview Huntington Hospital Guild, which ceased operations in 2018. Scholarships have been awarded annually since 2019. The scholarship is sustained by proceeds from operation of the Parkview Huntington Hospital gift shop.

Education - Higher Education

John Petty Trade School Scholarship

Community Foundation of the Quincy Area
Private
United States
US $1,000

Who We Are & What We Do

On November 26, 1997, a small group of citizens with an abundance of enthusiasm embarked on a mission to secure the quality of life in our region now and forever. By yearend, they had a modest $1,050. Through commitment and vision, the Quincy Area Community Foundation expanded and grew to become the Community Foundation Serving West Central Illinois & Northeast Missouri.

Serving 12 counties on both sides of the Mississippi River, we operate as a bridge between our donors’ charitable visions and the nonprofit organizations that bring those visions to life. 

Scholarship Opportunities

Community Foundation scholarships are offered annually for high school and college students throughout our region. Each scholarship has its own eligibility requirements.

John Petty Trade School Scholarship Fund

Grants Awarded

  • Spring.
  • $1,000 awarded, renewable for one additional year.

Vocational & Trade Education

HAF: Impact Grants (Formerly Innovation Grant)

Hemophilia Alliance Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $50,000
The Hemophilia Alliance Foundation's Impact Grants aim to support organizations enhancing services for individuals with inherited bleeding disorders. Since its inception in 2009, the foundation has awarded over $6.6 million, enabling innovative projects that expand capacity and collaboration. Eligible applicants include local organizations and federally-funded treatment centers, emphasizing creativity in project proposals. Priority will be given to initiatives that address unserved populations and foster educational advancements in the community.
Diseases & Conditions

Ingram-White Castle Team Member Scholarship

The Columbus Foundation
Private
United States
US $2,500 - US $3,500

Ingram-White Castle Team Member Scholarship 

The Ingram-White Castle Foundation established its scholarship in 1989 to honor founder Billy Ingram’s core belief in the importance of investment in learning and education. The scholarship may be used for any educational expenses for full-time or part-time study at any accredited public or independent college or university in the United States.

Award Amount:

  • $2,500 to $3,500
Education - Higher Education

Kenneth B. Creasy Speech and Debate Scholarship

The Columbus Foundation
Private
United States
US $5,000

Kenneth B. Creasy Speech and Debate Scholarship

The scholarship was created to honor the late Kenneth B. Creasy, who died unexpectedly in June of 1992. Mr. Creasy was a former social studies teacher and speech and debate coach at Olentangy and Hayes high schools in Delaware County, Ohio.

Award Amount:

  • One $5,000 scholarship for a graduating high school senior. 
  • One $5,000 scholarship for a current college student.
Education - Higher Education

Margaret Ford Smucker and Lloyd K. Smucker Scholarship Fund

The Columbus Foundation
Private
United States
More than US $500

Margaret Ford Smucker and Lloyd K. Smucker Scholarship Fund

The fund was established in memory of Margaret Ford and Lloyd K. Smucker by their son, John L. Smucker. Margaret and Lloyd Smucker lived most of their adult lives in Medina County, and Margaret Smucker taught in the Medina County public schools for many of those years. This fund provides scholarships annually to assist economically disadvantaged graduates of high schools in Medina County, Ohio to continue their education through college.

Education - Higher Education

Kia Pet Adoption Grant

Petfinder Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Kia Pet Adoption Grant, funded by the Petfinder Foundation as part of the Accelerate the Good program, supports organizations in the US, Canada, and Mexico with free or reduced-fee adoptions for dogs and cats. Grants are awarded monthly based on the number of adoptable pets listed on Petfinder.com until funds are depleted or November 1st. Grantees are required to report adoptions and share stories of pets adopted through this initiative.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

John and Margaret Humphris Veterinary Scholarship

The Community Foundation of Shelby County
Private
Franklin County, Ohio
Up to US $8,000

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

John and Margaret Humphris Veterinary Scholarship

Selection based upon (in order of priority):

Financial need, an eesay not to exceed 500 words: “Discuss your reasons for choosing to become a veterinarian and you plans after graduations.”, and recommendations.

Awards

  • One $2,000 scholarship, renewable for up to three (3) additional years
Veterinary Science & Services

PA Local Share Account (LSA) - Luzerne County Grant

Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development
State/Local Government
Luzerne County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The PA Local Share Account (LSA) Grant, administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, aims to enhance community well-being through projects that improve the quality of life. Established under the PA Race Horse Development and Gaming Act, this grant allocates 2% of gross terminal revenues from licensed gaming facilities to support local initiatives. It fosters economic development and resilience within Luzerne County, ensuring that the benefits of gaming positively impact the community.
Economic Services & Development

Frazier Family Foundation Scholarship

Frazier Family Foundation Inc
Private
United States
Up to US $10,000

Frazier Family Foundation

Lynn Frazier, together with his two sons, Garrett and Derrick, created The Frazier Family Foundation in 2018 with the mission to provide resources, education, and opportunities to foster on-ramps of excellence for future generations of innovators and creators.

The Frazier Family Foundation empowers young innovators and creators through grants, scholarships, and partner programs. Committed to its mission, the foundation partners with entities that make immediate, meaningful, and measurable impacts. Each year, the Frazier Family invests in initiatives that develop on-ramps of excellence at every stage of life.

Frazier Family Foundation Scholarship

The Frazier Family Foundation Scholarship is designed to provide "on-ramps of excellence" for the next generation of leaders, innovators, and thinkers in the Coastal Bend area by providing essential financial support to those with the grit and vision to succeed. Aimed at high school seniors and college students in Nueces County, this scholarship seeks to reduce the barriers to higher education and foster a community of driven individuals who are eager to push boundaries and exceed expectations. With a commitment to nurturing local talent and enhancing educational opportunities, the Frazier Family Foundation is dedicated to cultivating a legacy of empowerment and success in South Texas.

Eligible recipients can receive a scholarship up to $10,000 for tuition, books, registration, transportation, meal plan supplement, lab fees, and supplies.

Education - Higher Education

DeKalb County Farm Bureau High School Senior Scholarship

DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture
Association/Society
United States
US $1,200

DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation

Mission – The Foundation’s mission is to broaden awareness and understanding of agriculture through outreach and education.

Scholarships

The DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture is proud to offer numerous scholarships for high school seniors and college students. Preference will be given to applicants of Farm Bureau members or their children with certain eligibility requirements.

High School Senior Scholarship

The DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation endeavors to recognize students for their academic, school and community performance while in high school. The recognition is in the form of a scholarship to the student’s college of choice. 

Senior Scholarship

The Senior Scholarship recognizes students for their academic performance, school activities, leadership, and community service. The $1,200 scholarship is available to high school seniors pursuing college degrees in any field of interest. Up to ten scholarships will be awarded.

Education - Higher 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.