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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

Platt Scholarships for Fieldwork Participation

American Society of Overseas Research (ASOR)
Private
Armenia, Croatia +19 more
US $2,000
The Platt Scholarships for Fieldwork Participation, offered by the American Society of Overseas Research (ASOR), provide $2,000 scholarships for members involved in ASOR-affiliated archaeological projects. This year, ASOR plans to award nine scholarships to support participation in fieldwork across the Mediterranean and Western Asia. Scholarships aim to facilitate research endeavors while prioritizing applicants who have not previously received funding from ASOR or other sources for this summer.
Archaeology

Harva L. Sheeler Scholarships for Fieldwork Participation

American Society of Overseas Research (ASOR)
Private
Israel
US $2,000
The Sheeler Scholarships for Fieldwork Participation, offered by the American Society of Overseas Research (ASOR), provide $2,000 scholarships to support ASOR members in archaeological fieldwork. Established in 2014, these scholarships honor Harva L. Sheeler and are aimed at facilitating volunteer or staff participation in the Hesi Regional Project. This year, ASOR plans to award one scholarship to enhance research experiences for individuals passionate about the history and cultures of the Near East and Mediterranean.
Archaeology

Strange/Midkiff Families Scholarships for Fieldwork Participation

American Society of Overseas Research (ASOR)
Private
Armenia, Croatia +19 more
US $2,000
The Strange/Midkiff Families Scholarships for Fieldwork Participation, offered by the American Society of Overseas Research (ASOR), provide four scholarships of $2,000 each for members participating in ASOR-affiliated archaeological projects. Established in 2014, this scholarship aims to support ASOR members' active involvement in excavation projects, reflecting a commitment to research and public understanding of the Near East and Mediterranean cultures. Preference is given to applicants lacking prior funding support.
Archaeology

Youth Empowerment Program Scholarship

Community Foundation of the Ozarks Inc.
Private
United States
US $1,200
The Youth Empowerment Program Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides a $1,000 scholarship to a graduating high school senior who has been a member of the Youth Empowerment Project for at least one year. Applicants must submit an essay, a letter of recommendation from a project sponsor, and a transcript. This initiative aims to support students pursuing higher education at accredited institutions while fostering community engagement.
Vocational & Trade Education

Terry and Deborah Mitchel Scholarship

Community Foundation of the Ozarks Inc.
Private
Missouri
US $1,000
The Terry and Deborah Mitchel Scholarship provides a $1,000 scholarship to undergraduate students entering their second, third, or fourth year at a Missouri college or university. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and submit a transcript along with an essay. This scholarship is offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, which aims to enhance the quality of life in the region through resource development and community engagement.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Stevan B. Dana Project Grant

American Society of Overseas Research (ASOR)
Private
Armenia, Croatia +19 more
US $5,000
The Stevan B. Dana Project Grant, offered by the American Society of Overseas Research (ASOR), provides three annual grants of $5,000 each to support ASOR-affiliated archaeological projects. Established in 2021, this fund aims to assist smaller and newer initiatives, facilitating the purchase of equipment or covering off-season research costs. Since its inception, ASOR has awarded significant funding to enhance public understanding of the Near East's history and culture through rigorous research.
Archaeology

Arts Education Community Impact Grant

Tennessee Arts Commission
State/Local Government
Tennessee
More than US $20,000
The Arts Education Community Impact Grant, provided by the Tennessee Arts Commission, aims to enhance arts education through sustainable, community-driven initiatives. This three-year funding opportunity encourages partnerships among K-12 public schools, nonprofit arts organizations, and local agencies to address gaps in arts education. By emphasizing collaborative efforts and shared leadership, the grant seeks to create lasting systemic change, ensuring high-quality arts learning for all Tennessee K-12 students while supporting innovative projects and community engagement.
Art Education

Make/Shift Pitch Haus Competition (Michigan)

CultureSource
Private
Michigan
US $25,000
The Make/Shift Pitch Haus Competition, hosted by CultureSource, aims to celebrate Michigan's vibrant creative community by awarding four grants of $25,000 each. This initiative supports artists, makers, and cultural entrepreneurs who contribute to the state's identity and economic growth. Participants will utilize a versatile shipping container for various artistic activations, fostering collaboration and innovation. By investing in creative talents, Pitch Haus not only enhances cultural expression but also aids in talent retention and community development across Michigan.
Arts / Culture Access & Participation

Stevan B. Dana Project Grant for Israel

American Society of Overseas Research (ASOR)
Private
Israel
US $5,000
The Stevan B. Dana Project Grant for Israel, awarded by the American Society of Overseas Research (ASOR), provides a $5,000 grant to support ASOR-affiliated excavation projects in Israel. Established in 2021, this grant aims to assist newer and smaller projects, offering funding for necessary equipment or discrete initiatives. Preference is given to projects that have not received ASOR grants in the past three years, promoting innovative research in the rich historical landscape of the Eastern Mediterranean.
Archaeology

Arts Access Assistance

Kentucky Arts Council
State/Local Government
Kentucky
Up to US $5,000
The Arts Access Assistance program, run by the Kentucky Arts Council, provides funding between $2,500 and $5,000 to 501(c)(3) nonprofits for innovative arts programming aimed at underserved communities. This initiative fosters creativity and well-being by utilizing arts-based strategies that evolve with each grant cycle. The program seeks to enhance cultural engagement, promote lifelong learning, and increase participation in the arts across the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Arts / Culture Access & Participation

Lawrence T. Geraty Community Archaeology Grant

American Society of Overseas Research (ASOR)
Private
Jordan
US $4,500
The Lawrence T. Geraty Community Archaeology Grant, offered by the American Society of Overseas Research (ASOR), provides funding to support local engagement in the protection and preservation of archaeological sites in Jordan, particularly those associated with the Madaba Plains Project. With a grant of $4,500 available, this initiative fosters collaboration between archaeologists and local communities, offering vocational training and promoting cultural heritage preservation. The grant aims to develop community-based programs, ensuring the safeguarding of Jordan's archaeological treasures.
Archaeology

Denise L. Gold Project Grant

American Society of Overseas Research (ASOR)
Private
Cyprus, Egypt +4 more
US $2,500
The Denise L. Gold Project Grant, established in 2017 by the American Society of Overseas Research (ASOR), aims to support ASOR-affiliated archaeological projects. With a modest grant of $2,500 available annually, it prioritizes newer and smaller projects, assisting them in getting started or funding discrete components of larger projects. Preference is given to those projects that have not received ASOR funding in the past three years, fostering research and excavation in the Mediterranean region.
Archaeology

Charles Harris Project Grant

American Society of Overseas Research (ASOR)
Private
Armenia, Croatia +19 more
US $5,000
The Charles Harris Project Grant, offered by the American Society of Overseas Research (ASOR), provides $5,000 to support ASOR-affiliated archaeological projects, particularly for newer and smaller initiatives. This grant, made possible by the late Rev. Charles Harris's endowment, aims to help projects get started or fund discrete components of larger endeavors. Applications are encouraged from project directors or senior staff, with only one application per project allowed annually.
Archaeology

Joe D. Seger Project Grant

American Society of Overseas Research (ASOR)
Private
Armenia, Croatia +19 more
US $2,500
The Joe D. Seger Project Grant, offered by the American Society of Overseas Research (ASOR), provides $2,500 grants to support ASOR-affiliated excavation projects. Established in 2016 through generous donations, it aims to assist smaller, newer projects and specific components of larger ones. ASOR has awarded over $986,000 in grants since 2007, promoting archaeological research in the Mediterranean. This year, two Seger Project Grants will be awarded, furthering ASOR's mission to enhance understanding of the region's history and cultures.
Archaeology

Cheryl L. Wase Memorial Scholarship for the Study of Archaeology

Society for American Archaeology
Private
New Mexico
Unspecified amount
The Cheryl L. Wase Memorial Scholarship, provided by the Society for American Archaeology, supports New Mexico women pursuing degrees in archaeology. This renewable scholarship covers tuition and books for undergraduate and graduate students at local universities, promoting ethical archaeological practices and preservation of cultural heritage. Eligible candidates must maintain a 3.0 GPA and specialize in anthropology with a focus on archaeology, ensuring a commitment to understanding and protecting the past.
Archaeology

Matthew Tobin Cappetta Archaeological Scholarship

Society for American Archaeology
Private
Americas
US $2,500
The Matthew Tobin Cappetta Archaeological Scholarship, offered by the Society for American Archaeology, supports graduate students focusing on the archaeology or ethnoarchaeology of the American Southwest and South American Andes. It covers tuition, course materials, and travel for field studies, encouraging collaboration with Native American communities. The scholarship prioritizes applicants from historically underrepresented groups and is renewable upon reapplication annually, provided students maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0.
Archaeology

H. and T. King Grant for Archaeology of the Ancient Americas

Society for American Archaeology
Private
Caribbean, Central America +1 more
Up to US $25,000
The H. and T. King Grant for Archaeology of the Ancient Americas, managed by the Society for American Archaeology, supports significant archaeological research across Latin America, excluding the U.S. This grant encourages innovative projects focused on indigenous cultures from Mesoamerica to the Caribbean. Proposals are welcomed from both early-career and senior scholars, covering field research, data analysis, and laboratory work. The aim is to foster a deeper understanding and preservation of archaeological resources and cultural heritage.
Archaeology

Smith Literary Scholarship

Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Smith Literary Scholarship, established in memory of Margaret P. Smith, supports literary and historical research for students majoring in History or English Literature. Award amounts range from $2,000 to $5,000, with funds disbursed to colleges by August 1. This scholarship is available to residents within the Community Foundation's 42-town service area, promoting educational opportunities for aspiring writers and researchers.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Take Note! Antonia Brancia Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut
Private
United States
Approximately US $1,000
The Take Note! Antonia Brancia Memorial Scholarship, established in 2007, honors the legacy of Antonia Brancia, a dedicated pediatric audiologist and music lover. Offered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, this scholarship supports students from multiple towns who actively participate in music and pursue post-secondary studies in related fields. With an approximate award of $1,000, it aims to foster future talent in music education and performance.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Tri Kappa Scholarship - Women's Giving Circle

Crown Point Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Tri Kappa Scholarship - Women's Giving Circle, established by the Crown Point Community Foundation, aims to enhance life quality in South Lake County by providing financial assistance for various community needs. This non-renewable scholarship is open to residents over 21, with the next awards ceremony scheduled for May 7, 2026. The initiative reflects a commitment to maximize charitable impact while honoring donor intentions.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Slater Excellence in Teaching Award

Polk County Community Foundation
Corporate
Polk County, North Carolina, Spartanburg County, South Carolina
US $2,000 - US $5,000
The Slater Excellence in Teaching Award, offered by the Polk County Community Foundation, supports certified classroom teachers and media specialists in Polk County and Landrum. This program encourages professional growth by funding attendance at educational conferences and unique travel experiences related to their curriculum. The aim is to enhance classroom teaching through innovative learning opportunities. Eligible applicants must work directly with students and submit individual applications, ensuring impactful teaching practices in the local community.
Teacher Development & Training

Urology Care Foundation Health Equity Fellowship

Urology Care Foundation Inc
Private
Canada, Central America +2 more
Up to US $4,500
The Urology Care Foundation's Health Equity Fellowship Grant aims to train early-career urologists dedicated to addressing healthcare disparities in marginalized communities. Over two years, fellows will engage in didactic education and hands-on advocacy projects, gaining skills to implement innovative solutions. The program emphasizes mentorship and collaboration with Temple University, providing a unique opportunity for urologists to enhance their understanding of urban bioethics and community engagement while receiving a recognized certification upon completion.
Urology

Karen and Cornel Raab Scholarship

Crown Point Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Karen and Cornel Raab Scholarship, administered by the Crown Point Community Foundation, offers financial support to graduating high school students from Crown Point, Cedar Lake, or Lowell with a minimum GPA of 2.8. This non-renewable scholarship aims to assist students in achieving their educational goals. The foundation oversees over 80 scholarship funds, ensuring resources are allocated to meet the diverse needs of the community.
Education - Higher Education

L. Jane Keene Memorial Scholarship

Crown Point Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The L. Jane Keene Memorial Scholarship, administered by the Crown Point Community Foundation, aims to support graduating high school seniors and college students from Crown Point or the Crown Point Community School District. This scholarship offers financial assistance to meet various community needs while fostering educational advancement. Selection is based on donor-specified criteria, ensuring that resources are aligned with the aims of both students and the community.
Education - Higher Education

Christopher Day Memorial Scholarship

Crown Point Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Christopher Day Memorial Scholarship is offered by the Crown Point Community Foundation to support graduating high school seniors pursuing a degree in Culinary Arts. Applicants must be accepted into an accredited program. This non-renewable scholarship aims to assist students with financial needs while encouraging involvement in the ProStart program. The foundation manages over 80 scholarship funds, ensuring that community-driven financial support is directed to those who meet specific criteria.
Education - Higher Education Culinary Arts

The Urology Foundation: Innovation and Research Fund Grant

The Urology Foundation
Corporate
Ireland, United Kingdom
Up to £70,000
The Urology Foundation is the leading UK charity focused on addressing all urology diseases. With an investment of £10.8 million since 1995, it supports innovative research aimed at developing new treatments and improving clinical practices. The Innovation and Research Fund Grant offers up to £60,000 for projects that employ novel approaches to tackle urological disorders, emphasizing the importance of research conducted within the UK and Ireland.
Urology

American Italian Benevolent Society Scholarship

Crown Point Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The American Italian Benevolent Society Scholarship, administered by the Crown Point Community Foundation, supports graduating high school seniors and college students of Italian descent residing in Lake or Porter County. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and can re-apply annually. Preference is given to those with family ties to the Society, ensuring that community values are upheld while providing essential financial assistance for education.
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.

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