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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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32,499 Results based on applied filters

NAEF Grants

National Art Education Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,000 - US $10,500
The National Art Education Foundation (NAEF) is currently on a strategic pause regarding grant proposals until fall 2025. NAEF is committed to enhancing visual arts education through innovative initiatives that support instructional practices, research, and leadership. By promoting professional development and advocating for the inclusion of visual arts in curricula, NAEF aims to enrich the educational landscape for art educators and students alike.
Art Education

Christopher N. Coppola Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties
Private
Palm Beach County, Florida
Unspecified amount

Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties

The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, Inc., strengthens our communities by leading philanthropy and solutions through our direct work in partnership with donors, nonprofits and the community. Our 501(c)3 nonprofit Foundation is the foremost resource for convening partners to elevate people, improve lives and make our community a better place to live.

Grants & Scholarships

Grants power our nonprofit partners on the frontlines of pressing local issues, filling the opportunity gaps through direct-to-people programming.

Scholarships support aspiring college students who hold the promise of tomorrow’s progress.

Together, our competitive grants and scholarships help our region rise thanks to the vision and generosity of our donors. 

The Community Foundation offers both need and merit based scholarships.

Christopher N. Coppola Scholarship Fund

About the Fund

When friends remember Christopher N. Coppola, who died unexpectedly in March 2000 at age 33, they speak of his boundless energy, unflagging good humor, and infectious zest for life.

“He was the glue that kept all the rest of us together,” said Mary Murphy, whose older brother, Martin, was Chris’ classmate from kindergarten through graduation at Cardinal Newman High School. An only child, Chris considered the Murphy siblings — and many others — his extended family. “He was always with us,” she added.

After earning his degree from Appalachian State University in North Carolina, Chris returned to West Palm Beach to work with the Murphy family’s construction company. He later built a successful career as a certified commercial real estate appraiser with firms including Johnson & Parrish and Callaway & Price, contributing to major development projects throughout South Florida.

“Chris had more circles of friends than anyone could ever imagine,” said Martin Murphy. “He just loved being around people. He was a real gregarious person. Everyone felt he was their best friend.”

“He could always find something good about someone,” added Mary. “He really listened. He was a great friend to everyone. He could always make you laugh. He was an unbelievable person.”

Chris’s sudden loss left a void that inspired his friends to honor his memory in a lasting way. Led by the Murphy and Satter families, they established the Christopher N. Coppola Scholarship Fund at the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties. The fund supports graduating high school seniors in Palm Beach County who plan to study real estate or related fields such as construction, architecture, urban planning, development, or appraisal.

Education - Higher Education

Franklin County Retired Teachers Association Peggy Grate Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Columbus Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,000

Franklin County Retired Teachers Association Peggy Grate Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Franklin County Retired Teachers Association scholarship fund assists current teachers in a Franklin County public school system as they return to school to pursue their Master's degree.

Award Amount:

  • Two $1,000 graduate level scholarships
Teacher Development & Training

Bradley Collins Memorial Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties
Private
Martin County, Florida, Palm Beach County, Florida
Unspecified amount

Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties

The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, Inc., strengthens our communities by leading philanthropy and solutions through our direct work in partnership with donors, nonprofits and the community. Our 501(c)3 nonprofit Foundation is the foremost resource for convening partners to elevate people, improve lives and make our community a better place to live.

Grants & Scholarships

Grants power our nonprofit partners on the frontlines of pressing local issues, filling the opportunity gaps through direct-to-people programming.

Scholarships support aspiring college students who hold the promise of tomorrow’s progress.

Together, our competitive grants and scholarships help our region rise thanks to the vision and generosity of our donors. 

The Community Foundation offers both need and merit based scholarships.

Bradley Collins Memorial Scholarship Fund

Scholarship Eligibility

  • Graduating high school senior from any Palm Beach or Martin County high school
  • Must be a household and/or community leader
  • Demonstrate financial need

Education - Higher Education

Kansas State Scholarship

Kansas Board of Regents
State/Local Government
Kansas
Up to US $5,000
The Kansas State Scholarship supports financially needy students in the top 40-50% of Kansas high school graduates. Eligible seniors must complete the FAFSA and the State of Kansas Student Aid Application. Awarded scholars can receive up to $1,000 annually, renewable for up to four years based on financial need. Scholars must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA and enroll in at least 12 credit hours per semester to remain eligible for funding.
Education - Higher Education

Beverly Sommer Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties
Private
Martin County, Florida, Palm Beach County, Florida
Unspecified amount

Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties

The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, Inc., strengthens our communities by leading philanthropy and solutions through our direct work in partnership with donors, nonprofits and the community. Our 501(c)3 nonprofit Foundation is the foremost resource for convening partners to elevate people, improve lives and make our community a better place to live.

Grants & Scholarships

Grants power our nonprofit partners on the frontlines of pressing local issues, filling the opportunity gaps through direct-to-people programming.

Scholarships support aspiring college students who hold the promise of tomorrow’s progress.

Together, our competitive grants and scholarships help our region rise thanks to the vision and generosity of our donors. 

The Community Foundation offers both need and merit based scholarships.

Beverly Sommer Scholarship Fund

Scholarship Eligibility

  • Graduating high school senior from any Palm Beach or Martin County high school.
  • Should be involved in extracurricular activities.
  • Must have a 2.5 GPA or better while in high school and a C average in college and demonstrate financial need.

Education - Higher Education

Bennett/Darwin Family Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties
Private
Palm Beach County, Florida
Unspecified amount

Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties

The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, Inc., strengthens our communities by leading philanthropy and solutions through our direct work in partnership with donors, nonprofits and the community. Our 501(c)3 nonprofit Foundation is the foremost resource for convening partners to elevate people, improve lives and make our community a better place to live.

Grants & Scholarships

Grants power our nonprofit partners on the frontlines of pressing local issues, filling the opportunity gaps through direct-to-people programming.

Scholarships support aspiring college students who hold the promise of tomorrow’s progress.

Together, our competitive grants and scholarships help our region rise thanks to the vision and generosity of our donors. 

The Community Foundation offers both need and merit based scholarships.

Bennett/Darwin Family Scholarship Fund

Scholarship Eligibility

  • Graduating Senior from Palm Beach County public or independent high school.
  • Based on financial need.
  • Plans to attend law school after graduating under graduate college.
  • Minimum 2.0 GPA.

Education - Higher Education

Dunkin' Joyful Spaces Grant

Joy In Childhood Foundation Inc
Private
Alabama, Arizona +42 more
US $75,000 - US $150,000
The Dunkin' Joyful Spaces Grant supports children's hospitals and community health centers in creating joyful environments for pediatric patients. Launched in 2022, this initiative helps fund play areas, healing gardens, and other kid-friendly spaces, enhancing the hospital experience. Grants typically range from $25,000 to $65,000 annually, with a maximum of $150,000 over three years. This opportunity encourages creativity in designing spaces that provide comfort and joy to children and their families during hospital stays.
Children’s Health & Pediatrics

Spencer Educational Foundation: Course Development Grants for NJ Schools

Spencer Educational Foundation Inc
Private
New Jersey
US $10,000 - US $25,000

Spencer Educational Foundation Inc

The Spencer Educational Foundation was founded by the Rims Atlanta Chapter in 1979. To this day, Spencer remains the premier organization funding the education of tomorrow's risk management and insurance leaders.

The Spencer Educational Foundation: awards merit-based scholarships and grants to university students pursuing careers in risk management, insurance, and/or actuarial science; provides grants that create experiential learning opportunities both on and off campus; funds the development of risk management and insurance curricula in colleges and universities; supports Risk Managers by creating internship opportunities within the risk management function of their companies; and operates across the United States and Canada. 

Spencer Educational Foundation: Course Development Grants

Since 2014, Spencer has invested over $1.6 million in developing risk management and insurance (RMI) courses at close to 70 colleges and universities, exposing approximately 19,000 students to the RMI industry.

Our Course Development Grant program supports Introductory Risk Management and Insurance Course Development - for universities that have not previously offered any such instruction - as well as proposals for additional Course Curriculum Development and Program Development - for universities looking to develop a RMI program and/or expand existing RMI course offerings, with an emphasis on new and emerging areas in the industry.

Spencer Educational Foundation: Course Development Grants for NJ Schools

The Spencer Educational Foundation and New Jersey RIMS Chapter are looking to partner with colleges and universities in New Jersey to expand RMI education. Spencer’s Course Development funding supports the development of RMI curricula. Funding opportunities range from introductory course development (i.e., RMI 101) at institutions with no RMI courses to expanding existing RMI courses to address upper-level topics (e.g., Insurance Company Operations, P&C, and ERM). Grant amounts typically range from $10,000 to $25,000 (average $15,000), and New Jersey RIMS Chapter engagement is possible to support RMI graduate scholarships and experiential learning initiatives. 

Academic Success & Enrichment Curriculum Development

Elena Eckert Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley
Private
New York
More than US $1,000

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley 

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley (CFHV) empowers individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to fulfill their philanthropic goals through the establishment of charitable funds that support the needs of Dutchess, Putnam and Ulster counties. With over $100 million in assets, CFHV manages nearly 600 charitable funds and has distributed more than $777 million in grants and scholarships since January 2000. We lead initiatives to address urgent community needs such as food insecurity and educational challenges, offering both immediate relief and long-term support.

Elena Eckert Memorial Scholarship

The Elena Eckert Memorial Scholarship was established in loving memory of Elena Eckert, a New York State Corrections officer that served for roughly three decades. Her son Billy created the scholarship to honor two of his mother’s strongest beliefs: helping high school seniors in the local community achieve their dreams of higher education; and, giving back to family members of those that selflessly protect and serve in police, corrections and the armed forces. The scholarship is available to Dutchess, Orange, Putnam and Ulster County high school seniors who are the children or grandchildren of current or former armed forces members, police officers or corrections officers.

Type of Award

One-time scholarship payable to school.

Current High School

Graduating senior from Dutchess, Orange, Putnam or Ulster County

Education - Higher Education

Andy Vito/Harold Tompkins/Ron Vece Scholarship Fund

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley
Private
New York
US $750

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley 

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley (CFHV) empowers individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to fulfill their philanthropic goals through the establishment of charitable funds that support the needs of Dutchess, Putnam and Ulster counties. With over $100 million in assets, CFHV manages nearly 600 charitable funds and has distributed more than $777 million in grants and scholarships since January 2000. We lead initiatives to address urgent community needs such as food insecurity and educational challenges, offering both immediate relief and long-term support.

Andy Vito/Harold Tompkins/Ron Vece Scholarship Fund

Established by the Hudson Valley Umpires Association in memory of Andy Vito, Harold Tompkins and Ron Vece, this scholarship is available to graduating seniors from Dutchess County high schools, Putnam Valley High School, Highland High School, New Paltz High School, Marlboro High School or Wallkill High School who have played high school baseball.

Type of Award

One-time scholarship payable to school.

Current High School

All Dutchess County High Schools, Putnam Valley High School, Highland High School, New Paltz High School, Marlboro High School and Wallkill High School.

Education - Higher Education

Prehospital Follow up and Treatment Program MOUD

State of New Jersey Department of Health
State/Local Government
New Jersey
Up to US $4,000,000

New Jersey Department of Health

The scope of work for the public health system is ever-expanding, and the Department is on the frontlines in leading the response to public health challenges. The Department has three primary branches – Public Health Services, Health Systems, and Integrated Health. All work collaboratively toward improving health by strengthening New Jersey’s health system.

Our Mission: Protect the public’s health, promote healthy communities, and continue to improve the quality of health care in New Jersey.

Prehospital Follow up and Treatment Program MOUD

Purpose for Which the Grant Program Funds Shall be Used

The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) seeks applications to fund New Jersey State-licensed Mobile Intensive Care (MIC) providers for emergency assessment, initiation, and follow-up or interim treatment using Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD). This program will also facilitate patient referrals to substance use disorder care and resources through NJDOH's Electronic Rapid Referral Platform.

Qualifications Needed by Applicant to be Considered for a Grant

Category A Funding: New Jersey State-liscenced Mobile Intensive Care (MIC) provider

Category B Funding: An approved Mobile Intensive Health (MIH) program under N.J.A.C. 8:49 et seq., or initiate an application for such within 30 days of receiving the notice of award for this funding, as applicable.

Addiction & Substance Use Disorders

Charless Foundation Grant

St Louis Community Foundation
Private
St. Louis City, Missouri
US $10,000 - US $50,000
The Charless Foundation, part of the St. Louis Community Foundation, aims to support charitable organizations that promote the health and wellness of Missouri senior citizens, especially in South St. Louis City. Starting in 2025, grantmaking will focus on housing assistance, including home repairs and modifications for older adults. Additionally, funding for food banks will be available, capped at $10,000 per site. Grants can range from $10,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on the applicant's history with the foundation.
Senior Services

Smithsonian Biodiversity Genomics Postdoctoral Fellowship Program (BioG)

Smithsonian Institution (SI)
Federal Government
District of Columbia
Up to US $62,000
The Smithsonian Biodiversity Genomics Postdoctoral Fellowship Program (BioG) offers postdoctoral researchers the opportunity to engage in collaborative research in biodiversity genomics. The fellowship supports projects involving phylogenomics, population genomics, and bioinformatics analysis, with a stipend of $62,000 per year. Applicants must have completed or be nearing completion of their Ph.D. and propose to conduct research at Smithsonian facilities for 12 to 24 months, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration.
Genetics & Genomics

The Don and Elsie Sickafoose Educational Trust Fund

Stark Community Foundation
Private
United States
More than US $500

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties. In 2025, more than $1,000,000 was awarded to local students to help them achieve their educational dreams.

The Don and Elsie Sickafoose Educational Trust Fund

The Don and Elsie Sickafoose Educational Trust Fund was established to assist students residing in Carroll County.

Amount:

  • Varies. Minimum $500.

Renewable:

  • Yes
Academic Scholarship Programs

Direct Services Grants

St. Louis City Senior Fund
State/Local Government
St. Louis City, Missouri
Up to US $75,000

St. Louis City Senior Fund

The St. Louis City Senior Fund envisions the City of St. Louis as an aging-friendly community where older residents can thrive in environments that best support their well-being.

Direct Services Grants

Purpose of this RFP

The City of St. Louis Senior Citizens’ Services Fund (St. Louis City Senior Fund) is seeking proposals from non-profit organizations or government entities for one-year grants.

Applicants must provide programs or services for older adults in the City of St. Louis that fall under one of two focus areas for this funding round:

  • Caregiving Support OR
  • Case Management & Resource Navigation

We will prioritize support for:

  • Organizations who have a history, commitment, and established local presence for serving older adults living in the City of St. Louis;
  • Programs and services that are evidence or experience-based and adapt to and reflect the people they seek to serve;
  • Programs and services that have limited availability and could expand their reach with grant funding or are threatened due to changes in funding; and/or
  • Programs and services focused on serving residents that have limited to no access to similar existing services due to financial, language, mobility, or other barriers.
Senior Services

Anna C. Lawler Charitable Trust Grant

Anna C. Lawler Charitable Trust
Private
Venango County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Anna C. Lawler Charitable Trust Grant focuses on supporting impactful projects in Venango County, PA. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and demonstrate a commitment to community service. The trust prioritizes initiatives that provide measurable outcomes, collaborate with other entities, and address significant community needs without duplicating existing services. Organizations should have a minimum of three years of operational experience and present evidence of past successes to qualify for funding.
Community Development & Revitalization Human & Social Services

GSC Student Research Grant

Geological Society of Connecticut
Association/Society
Connecticut
US $500
The Geological Society of Connecticut offers the GSC Student Research Grant to support undergraduate and master’s students conducting geology-related fieldwork in Connecticut. Each year, up to three grants of $500 may be awarded to eligible applicants. Students from any institution can apply, provided they meet the eligibility criteria related to their field of study. This initiative aims to enhance geological research and education while promoting the sustainable use of natural resources in the state.
Geology

TYLENOL Future Care Scholarship

Tylenol
Corporate
District of Columbia, Puerto Rico +1 more
US $5,000 - US $10,000
The TYLENOL Future Care Scholarship supports students pursuing healthcare careers, continuing a 30-year tradition of helping those dedicated to caring for others. Eligible applicants must be U.S. residents, graduate students or seniors enrolling in graduate school for the 2024-25 academic year, and provide proof of enrollment in an accredited healthcare program. Scholarships cover tuition, fees, and necessary supplies, ensuring that future healthcare professionals receive the support they need.
Medical Education & Professional Training

Ken and Ann Horoho Memorial Fund

Pittsburgh Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

The Pittsburgh Foundation provides scholarship opportunities for students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four–year universities, graduate schools, and career/technical schools.

Ken and Ann Horoho Memorial Fund

The Ken and Ann Horoho Memorial Fund was created at The Pittsburgh Foundation to provide scholarships to graduating high school seniors in the Johnstown/Altoona area to assist in furthering their educational pursuits.

  • Average Award: Varies
  • Award Type: Single-Year Award
Education - Higher Education

Traveling Fellowship Program

American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society Inc
Private
Countries
Unspecified amount
The Traveling Fellowship Program, managed by the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS), offers mid-career members a unique chance to attend the AOFAS Annual Meeting and visit top research institutions. Participants will enhance their skills by observing surgeries, learning new techniques, and sharing their research experiences. The 2025 program runs from September 8-25, featuring visits to esteemed sites, including the University of South Carolina and the Rothman Institute.
Orthopedics

The Howard and Edith Robertson Malvern Rotary Scholarship Fund

Stark Community Foundation
Private
United States
More than US $500

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties. In 2025, more than $1,000,000 was awarded to local students to help them achieve their educational dreams.

The Howard and Edith Robertson Malvern Rotary Scholarship Fund

The Howard and Edith Robertson Malvern Rotary Scholarship Fund was established to assist graduating high school seniors who are residents of Brown Township in Carroll County, Ohio. 

Amount:

  • Varies. Minimum $500

Renewable:

  • Yes
Education - Higher Education

Upward Momentum

Upward Momentum
Corporate
Missouri
US $200,000
Upward Momentum is a collaborative fund aimed at transforming economic mobility in Missouri. By investing in community-driven initiatives, it seeks to address systemic inequities and foster opportunities for all. The fund emphasizes partnerships and innovative strategies to create lasting change, focusing on the unique diversity of Missouri's communities. With a commitment to inclusivity and collaboration, Upward Momentum is poised to drive impactful solutions that enhance economic well-being across the state.
Economic Rights, Justice, & Mobility

Henry K. Peterson Foundation Grant

Community Foundation For Western Ia
Private
Cass County, Iowa, Fremont County, Iowa +7 more
Up to US $10,000
The Henry K. Peterson Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations providing services to the disabled population of Southwest Iowa. Established to honor Henry K. Peterson, a notable figure in Iowa's legal and civic communities, this foundation awards approximately $10,000 annually to promote impactful philanthropic initiatives. Through its efforts, the Foundation aims to enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities, fostering community growth and support.
Disability Care & Services

Travis Companies Scholarship

Innovia Foundation
Private
Adams County, Washington, Asotin County, Washington +18 more
US $500 - US $10,000

About Us

As the community foundation for Eastern Washington and North Idaho, we partner with people who want to improve their communities and make the world better. We work together to identify and respond to our region’s greatest opportunities, help those in need, and leave a lasting impact.

Scholarship

Each year, Innovia awards over $400,000 in scholarships to deserving students who are college-bound or pursuing vocational or technical training.

Travis Companies Scholarship

Applicants must be children or grandchildren of current employees at Travis Pattern and related companies. Parent or grandparent must have been employed by Travis Pattern and related companies for at least three years, and the child or grandchild must be under age 23.

Previous recipients of this award are eligible to reapply.

Education - Higher Education

American Association of University Women/Wagy Fund

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Clay County, Missouri, Jackson County, Missouri +1 more
Unspecified amount

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.

American Association of University Women / Wagy Fund (AAUW)

The Kansas City, Missouri, Branch of the American Association of University Women promotes education and scholarships for women. The mission of the Wagy Fund is to further the mission of AAUW and to honor Irene Wagy.

Grant Focus: Organizations that promote societal change through programs benefiting women and girls in Kansas City, Missouri.

Women & Girl Services

Katherine Lercara Fund for Needy Children Grant

Gaspar Joseph Lercara
Private
San Joaquin County, California
Approximately US $10,000
The Katherine Lercara Fund for Needy Children, established in 1980, provides annual grants to support the welfare of needy children in San Joaquin County, California. Managed by Wells Fargo Bank, the fund honors Gaspar Joseph Lercara, who dedicated his legacy to aiding children in need. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt. This fund not only reflects the values of its founder but also aims to make a positive impact on the lives of children in the community.
Child Welfare Services

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.