Upcoming Webinar
How Funders Feel About AI, and What Keeps Them Saying Yes.
Wed, Oct 14 @ 2PM ET

Skip to main content
Main content

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

Skip the search. Get matched with grants that fit your non-profit.

Skip the search.

Get matched with grants that actually fit.

Smart recommendations based on your profile — in minutes.

Find me grants

Filters

32,499 Results based on applied filters

Jane’s Fellowship

The Russell Family Foundation
Private
Pierce County, Washington
Approximately US $10,700
Jane's Fellowship Program, established by The Russell Family Foundation, empowers grassroots leaders in Pierce County through a year-long cohort experience. Since 2004, it has graduated 144 individuals, fostering essential leadership skills and community engagement. Participants enhance their capabilities in areas like conflict resolution and storytelling, ensuring they contribute effectively to local challenges. With a stipend of $8,500 and additional funding for training, this program continues to honor the legacy of Jane Russell by nurturing future community leaders.
Civic Leadership Development

Joseph H. and Mildred C. McManus Scholarship

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley
Private
New York
US $1,500

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.

Joseph H. and Mildred C. McManus Scholarship

Joseph H. McManus was born in Poughkeepsie in 1900 and graduated from Poughkeepsie High School. Mr. McManus lived in the Poughkeepsie area his entire lifetime until his death in 1988. His wife Mildred Conklin was born in Ulster County in 1902 and married Joseph McManus in 1940. Mrs. McManus died in 1985.

Mr. and Mrs. McManus loved young people and it was their wish which was expressed in the Last Will and Testament of Joseph H. McManus to establish a Trust for the residents of their beloved Dutchess County. This scholarship is not necessarily intended for those with the greatest scholastic ability but is intended for those who must apply themselves to prosper or who demonstrate financial need.

The scholarship is available to graduating seniors or recent graduates of high schools in Dutchess County. The scholarships shall be applied to tuition costs at accredited colleges or universities for a period not to exceed four (4) years.

Type of Award

One-time scholarship payable to school.

Current High School

Graduating seniors or recent graduates of high schools in Dutchess County

Education - Higher Education

Jean DeGrace Crandall 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.

Jean DeGrace Crandall Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship was set up as a memorial to Jean DeGrace Crandall, educator and friend to the migrant community. She worked as a Tutor Advocate for the Mid-Hudson Migrant Education Outreach Program (MEOP), a folklorist for the Dutchess County Arts Council and was the owner/operator of La Mula Chula in Rhinebeck, a store featuring fair-trade Mexican folk art, which she imported herself. An annual scholarship will be awarded for post-secondary assistance to a migrant farmworker or child of a migrant farmworker (with a preference for those from Mexico) with a history of migration to Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster, or Westchester Counties in New York State. Though not required, but because of Jean’s personal interests, students with a demonstrated interest in traditional Mexican art and culture are especially encouraged to apply.

Jean was a true community activist and philanthropist. She was warm hearted and altruistic in nature and had a special commitment to the immigrant community of the greater Poughkeepsie area. This scholarship honors her generous spirit.

Type of Award

One-time scholarship payable to school.

Current High School

Any High School in Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster or Westchester Counties

Education - Higher Education

Hudson Valley Guns and Hoses 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.

Hudson Valley Guns and Hoses Scholarship

Established by Hudson Valley Guns and Hoses, the scholarship is available to paid or volunteer firefighters or law enforcement officers (or an immediate relative of a paid or volunteer firefighter or law enforcement officer) who are college bound or currently enrolled undergraduate or graduate college students in Dutchess, Orange, Putnam and Ulster Counties. The scholarship will be awarded to individuals who will be either a full time undergraduate or matriculated graduate students at any accredited college or university or vocational school in the United States who plan to major in Criminal Justice, Fire Science, Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management, Public Administration or Emergency Medical Services/Professions.

Hudson Valley Guns and Hoses awards three memorial scholarships each year to honor the lives of Hudson Valley Heroes who left us too soon:

  • Deputy Sheriff Kristopher Cuddeback Scholarship
  • Sergeant Daniel DiDato Memorial Scholarship
  • Julia “Jules” Eurillo Scholarship – Awarded to a female student who embodies the living spirit of Jules with her school and community involvement
  • Captain Jack Rose Scholarship

Type of Award

One-time scholarship payable to school.

Current High School

High School Senior, College Student, Graduate Student

Education - Higher Education

Delta Dental of Oklahoma Grants

Delta Dental of Oklahoma Foundation
Private
Oklahoma
Unspecified amount
The Delta Dental of Oklahoma Foundation aims to enhance the oral health of Oklahomans by providing grants for dental care access, education, and research. Funding is focused on nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and government agencies that develop programs for underserved populations. The Foundation prioritizes projects that are free or low-cost, support volunteer dental professionals, and demonstrate significant community impact. Notably, grants cannot be used to compensate dental professionals or fund new clinic operatories unless under exceptional circumstances.
Dental Health

Western Pennsylvania Scholarship Fund for Higher Education

Pittsburgh Foundation
Private
Pennsylvania
US $5,000

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local 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 and career/technical schools.

Western Pennsylvania Scholarship Fund for Higher Education

The Western Pennsylvania Scholarship Fund for Higher Education was established at The Pittsburgh Foundation to provide scholarships for graduating high school seniors residing in Allegheny County who are planning on attending a 4-year college or university.

Award Type: Single or Multi-Year (up to 4 years.)

Education - Higher Education

CON Level of Care Support Services Grant Program

Illinois Department of Children and Family Services
State/Local Government
Illinois
US $250,000 - US $10,000,000

CON Level of Care Support Services Grant Program

The purpose of this funding opportunity is to support the construction, renovation, rehabilitation, expansion, and improvement of facilities that serve youth and families. Through this investment, the Department seeks to strengthen service capacity, improve safety and accessibility, address facility deficiencies, and enhance the quality of environments in which services are delivered.

Funding may be used to support projects that improve the availability, condition, functionality, security, accessibility, or suitability of facilities used to provide residential, treatment, supportive, or other Department approved services. The Department intends to invest in projects that demonstrate a clear need, readiness for implementation, and the potential to improve outcomes for youth and families served.

Examples of allowable grant activities include:

  • Demolition (in preparation for additional work)
  • Site preparation and improvement
  • New construction of buildings and structures
  • Reconstruction or improvement of existing buildings or structure
  • Specialized furnishings and equipment
  • Replacement of currently utilized assets by a better asset
  • Expansion of existing buildings or facilities
  • Direct costs which significantly increases the service potential of a current building or structure
  • Work that contains repairs, maintenance, remodeling, or rehabilitation

Funding Information

  • Opportunity Funding - $30,000,000.00
  • Award Ceiling - $10,000,000.00
  • Award Floor - $250,000.00

Family Services

State-Aided Institutions (SAI) Field Trip Grant

Maryland State Department of Education
State/Local Government
Maryland
Unspecified amount

State-Aided Institutions (SAI) Field Trip Grant

This grant provides funds to Local Education Agencies (LEAs) to provide transportation to students for field trips to non-profit educational institutions that are qualified as State–Aided Institutions (SAIs). This program is intended to expand student access to enriching educational experiences offered by SAIs. Priority is provided for high-needs schools, being defined in this grant as a school having more than 40% of their enrolled students as receiving or eligible for the federal Free and Reduced Price Meal (FARMs) program.

Funding Amount Available

  • $600,000 is available for this grant program.

Estimated Number of Grants

  • Will vary based on the number of applications received.
Academic Success & Enrichment

Westmoreland Education Fund

Pittsburgh Foundation
Private
United States
US $10,000

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local 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 and career/technical schools.

Westmoreland Education Fund

The Westmoreland Education Fund was created at The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County to provide scholarships to traditional and non-traditional students who reside in Westmoreland County.

Award Type: Renewable award.

Education - Higher Education

William and Muriel Reynolds Moreland Scholarship Fund

Pittsburgh Foundation
Private
United States
US $2,500

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local 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 and career/technical schools.

William and Muriel Reynolds Moreland Scholarship Fund

The William and Muriel Reynolds Moreland Scholarship was established at The Pittsburgh Foundation to honor William H. Moreland and Muriel Reynolds Moreland in appreciation of their lifetime commitment to the citizens of the Borough of Dormont, Pennsylvania. This scholarship supports graduating seniors who are residents of Dormont Borough and are continuing their education in a post secondary accredited program. Applicants should demonstrate service to others through their school, church and community.

Award Type: Single-Year Award. Previous recipients are encouraged to re-apply.

Education - Higher Education

Maxine Sprague Lahti Foundation for the Performing Arts Grant (Michigan)

Maxine Sprague Lahti Foundation for the Performing Arts
Private
Monroe County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Maxine Sprague Lahti Foundation for the Performing Arts Grant supports organizations and individuals in Monroe County, Michigan, to enhance performing arts. The foundation prioritizes projects that provide year-round programming, reflect social missions, address community needs, and benefit underserved populations. Eligible applicants must be established for at least one year and demonstrate a public performance. The foundation does not support general operating costs, pilot programs, or for-profit entities.
Performing Arts

Hudson Valley Financial Professionals Scholarship

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley
Private
New York
More than US $500

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.

Hudson Valley Financial Professionals Scholarship

Established by the Hudson Valley Financial Professionals. One scholarship will be awarded to a graduating senior from a Dutchess County high school who wishes to pursue a career in the financial services industry at any accredited college or university. Financial Services careers include banking, finance, insurance, investment banking, etc.

Type of Award

One-time scholarship payable to school.

Current High School

Any Dutchess County high school

Education - Higher Education

Martha J. Earp Charitable Trust Grant

Martha J. Earp Charitable Trust
Association/Society
Jefferson County, Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Martha J. Earp Charitable Trust Grant supports initiatives in the Steubenville area that promote year-round programming, provide direct services, and address community needs. Eligible organizations must demonstrate financial accountability and collaboration while ensuring measurable outcomes. Notably, organizations should have three years of operation and prior impact reports. The trust does not support discriminatory practices or certain funding areas, including operating costs and new programs.
Education - K through 12

DOE Weatherization IIJA Multi-Family Grant

State of New Jersey Department of Community Affairs
State/Local Government
New Jersey
Unspecified amount

New Jersey Department of Community Affairs

The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) is a State agency created to provide administrative guidance, financial support and technical assistance to local governments, community development organizations, businesses and individuals to improve the quality of life in New Jersey.

DCA offers a wide range of programs and services, including local government management and finance, affordable housing production, fire safety, building safety, community planning and development, historic preservation, disaster recovery and mitigation, and information privacy.

Weatherization Assistance Program - Multi-Family Initiative Request for Proposal

Introduction and Purpose

The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (NJ DCA) Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is issuing this Request for Proposal (RFP) to solicit qualified organizations to provide weatherization services for multifamily housing projects.

The goal of this project is to improve energy efficiency, implement renewable energy systems, and reduce energy costs for low-income multifamily housing units in New Jersey. Weatherization services include conducting energy audits and inspections, upgrading insulation, lighting, heating and cooling systems, renewable energy systems, and providing other ancillary energy-saving services. 

Renewable/Sustainable Energy Energy Efficiency & Conservation

ComEd Powering the Arts Program

League Of Chicago Theatres
Private
Boone County, Illinois, Bureau County, Illinois +25 more
Up to US $20,000

League of Chicago Theatres 

The League of Chicago Theatres was founded in 1979 by a small group of theaters formerly known as the Off Loop Producers Association. Their mission was to enrich and sustain the economic and cultural life in Chicago by developing marketing, advocacy and information services to strengthen the operations of member theatres. 

Today the League serves many functions for the community including audience development, advocacy, government relations, grant-making, and professional development. The League remains an organization that is governed by our membership and is proud to serve more than 200 theaters. Our membership encompasses a diverse list of companies including not-for-profit and commercial operations, suburban and city-based, all-volunteer storefront operations and large regional theatres. 

ComEd Powering the Arts Program

Purpose and Overview

Exposure to the arts is vitally important for the health of our communities. Coming together to share a cultural offering is a way to cultivate community and achieve social connection, which inspires and uplifts us all. Arts and culture should be accessible to everyone. Through this program, ComEd and the League of Chicago Theatres look to reach audiences that have otherwise been unable to access the richness of cultural offerings throughout the ComEd service area.

Experiences in the arts increase creativity across the spectrum of human endeavor. Each experience provides audiences with further opportunities for interaction, whether they are inspired to educate themselves further about the topic, create a work of art themselves, or perhaps to attend another event. Each exposure enhances the quality of life for the audiences but can also change lives in profound ways.

Recognizing that access to art is crucial to the quality of our lives, ComEd has partnered with the League of Chicago Theatres to support cultural institutions in northern Illinois in their efforts to reach new and diverse audiences. The ComEd Powering the Arts program has been designed to assist local institutions in these efforts by providing funding for some expenses toward these goals.

Applicants may request funding for either $20,000 or any amount up to $10,000. Requests for funding between levels ($10,001-$19,999) will not be considered.

Arts / Culture Access & Participation

H. Normington Schofield 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.

H. Normington Schofield Scholarship

Established by the family and friends of Norm Schofield, scholarships are available to graduating seniors of Beacon High School, John Jay High School, Roy C. Ketcham High School and Our Lady of Lourdes High School planning to major in environmental studies or education.

Type of Award

One-time scholarship payable to school.

Current High School

Beacon High School, John Jay High School, Our Lady of Lourdes High School, Roy C. Ketcham High School

Education - Higher Education

George A. and Catherine V. Quill Scholarship

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley
Private
New York
US $1,000 - US $1,500

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.

George A. and Catherine V. Quill Scholarship

Through the thoughtfulness and generosity of George A. Quill and his wife Catherine V. Quill a scholarship fund has been established for the benefit of the residents of Dutchess and Orange counties. Mr. and Mrs. Quill were active in their community as residents of Beacon New York for 35 years. The Quills encouraged young people to have faith in God. They stressed the importance in getting a good education being self sufficient and living a respectable and honest life.

This scholarship is not necessarily intended for those students with the highest grade point average but rather intended for those students who must apply themselves to prosper or those who are able to demonstrate financial need.

Type of Award

One-time scholarship payable to school.

Current High School

Beacon High School, John Jay High School, Newburgh Free Academy, Poughkeepsie High School, Roy C. Ketcham High School

Education - Higher Education

Frank Thomas Groff Scholarship

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley
Private
New York
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.

Frank Thomas Groff Scholarship

The scholarship is available to members of the Roman Catholic Church who are graduating seniors of a high school in Dutchess County. The scholarship shall be applied to tuition costs of completing an Associate or Baccalaureate degree at an accredited college or university in the United States.

$1000 awarded every other year in odd number years.

Type of Award

Renewable for up to three additional years and payable to the school

Current High School

Any Dutchess County high school

Education - Higher Education

Crossroads Fund: Seed Fund Grant

Crossroads Fund
Private
Cook County, Illinois, DuPage County, Illinois +6 more
Up to US $15,000
The Crossroads Fund: Seed Fund Grant supports organizations and groups in the Chicago Metropolitan area that promote social change. It focuses on collaborative, risk-taking, and strategic efforts that yield concrete community benefits. With a maximum grant of $15,000, it is open to 501(c)(3) organizations and those with fiscal sponsorship or bank accounts, prioritizing those with annual expenses under $500,000. This fund fosters diverse forms of activism, ensuring financial support for established and emerging community-based groups.
Social Justice / Human Rights Human & Social Services

Mark Wahlberg Youth Foundation Grant

Mark Wahlberg Youth Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Mark Wahlberg Youth Foundation, established in 2001 by Mark and Jim Wahlberg, aims to support youth service programs that eliminate barriers to success for inner city youth. By providing financial and community support, the foundation empowers young individuals to achieve their potential and dreams, fostering a nurturing environment reminiscent of the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, where Mark spent his formative years.
Youth Services

Pittsburgh Technical Institute Scholarship Fund

Pittsburgh Foundation
Private
Allegheny County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local 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 and career/technical schools.

Pittsburgh Technical Institute Scholarship Fund

Scholarship for students originally at PTC, now at the Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC) who reside in the states of Pennsylvania, Ohio or West Virginia and are deserving on merit or are in need of financial help to begin or continue their education.

Award Type: Renewable Award (subject to committee recommendation)..

Education - Higher Education

The Henry Warden/Patty Shannon Scholarship Endowment Fund

The Community Foundation of Rappahannock River Region, Inc
Private
Virginia
Unspecified amount

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Henry Warden/Patty Shannon Scholarship Endowment Fund

Henry Warden, a Pennsylvania native, moved to Virginia in the late 1800’s, residing at his historic Hazel Hill on lower Princess Ann Street. In addition to owning several other farm properties around the city and in Spotsylvania County, Henry was very active in Fredericksburg public affairs: including, but not limited to serving on the Fredericksburg City Council for 12 years, holding a position as a director of the Chamber of Commerce, serving on the board of directors at Planters National Bank of Fredericksburg (a predecessor of today’s PNC Bank), served on the Fredericksburg City School Board and was one of the founders of Lee Hill Cemetery. He also owned several businesses including Hazel Hill Canning Company.

Patty Shannon is Henry’s great-granddaughter.

High school seniors graduating from Spotsylvania County or the City of Fredericksburg are eligible for this renewable scholarship as a first-generation college student in their immediate family and demonstrate financial need.

Education - Higher Education

Thomas M. Colella & Florence M. Colella Scholarship Fund

Pittsburgh Foundation
Private
Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local 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 and career/technical schools.

Thomas M. Colella & Florence M. Colella Scholarship Fund

The Thomas M. Colella & Florence M. Colella Scholarship Fund was created at The Pittsburgh Foundation to provide a full tuition, multi-year scholarship for a student from Western Pennsylvania, specifically for a student entering Grove City college for undergraduate studies. The award is a “last-dollar award,” which means the funding released each year will take into account any additional public funding, grants or scholarships for which the student is eligible in that given year.

Award Type: Multi-Year (up to 4 years). Recipients must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.25 and degree enrollment at Grove City College.

Education - Higher Education

The George Toliver “Swish 21” Scholarship Fund

The Community Foundation of Rappahannock River Region, Inc
Private
Caroline County, Virginia, Fredericksburg City, Virginia +3 more
Unspecified amount

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The George Toliver “Swish 21” Scholarship Fund

George Toliver attended King George High School 1966 – 1969 and was a multi-sports star in Basketball and Baseball.

As a senior for the Foxes, he was a Co-Captain of the 20-1 State Runner-up Basketball team, led the team in scoring with an 18.1 ppg average and was First Team All-District. He was also MVP on the baseball team and in 1969 graduated with honors.

George attended James Madison University where he led the basketball team in scoring 3 out of 4 seasons. He was the 1st player in JMU history to score 1,000 points. He was involved in community service and led a Girl’s AAU Basketball program for 10 years. In 2004 he coached a team to a National Championship.

In 1991 he was inducted into the JMU Hall of Fame and was also inducted into the King George Sports Hall of Fame 2012 (individual) and in 2013 (as member of the 1969 Basketball team). George went on to referee Major College and International Basketball. He then had a 14-year career as a referee in the National Basketball Association.

The scholarship name - “SWISH 21” (Success With Integrity Spirit Humility) represents his proficiency in shooting a basketball through the net. “21” was his KGHS basketball jersey number. By establishing this scholarship, George would like to annually assist the recipient pursue the educational experience to eventually make their positive SWISH contributions to society.

Education - Higher Education

The George D. Taylor Scholarship Fund

The Community Foundation of Rappahannock River Region, Inc
Private
Fredericksburg City, Virginia, Stafford County, Virginia
Unspecified amount

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The George D. Taylor Scholarship Fund

This scholarship fund was established at The Community Foundation in August 2013 upon transfer of the George D. Taylor Education Trust from StellarOne Bank. It had been created there through Mr. Taylor’s will. After insuring that his late wife, Edith, would be cared for, George Taylor intended the remainder of his estate to support the higher education students from Stafford County Schools or Fredericksburg City Schools, who are high achieving and have the greatest need.

Education - Higher Education

MSF: Early Childhood Education Grant Program

Morris Stulsaft Foundation
Private
Alameda County, California, Contra Costa County, California +3 more
Unspecified amount
The Morris Stulsaft Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of Bay Area children and youth by funding organizations that provide quality early childhood education for ages 0 to 5. The foundation prioritizes strong leadership and community engagement, supporting programs that incorporate a whole-child approach, engage parents, and promote teacher development. Grants are available for organizations serving low-income households in the San Francisco Bay Area, with a focus on sustainable, impactful initiatives.
Early Childhood Development

YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties Scholarships

YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties
Association/Society
Kitsap County, Washington, Pierce County, Washington
Unspecified amount
The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties offers scholarships designed to eliminate financial barriers to access Y programs and services. These scholarships enable individuals and families to engage in transformative activities, regardless of their age, background, or income level. Funded by local donors, the scholarships typically cover up to 50% of costs, ensuring that everyone who qualifies can benefit. Applications are assessed based on gross income, household size, and specific circumstances.
Family 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.