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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

ACSM: International Student Award

American College Of Sports Medicine Foundation Inc
Private
Africa, Antarctica +10 more
US $1,000
The ACSM International Student Award supports students from outside the U.S. by providing funds for travel expenses to present their research at the ACSM Annual Meeting. Eligible applicants include full-time students who are the first authors of accepted abstracts. This award aims to promote international research collaboration in health and human performance, recognizing the quality of research in both basic and applied sciences.
Kinesiology & Sports Medicine

John Earhart Memorial Scholarship

Muskingum County Community Foundation
Corporate
Muskingum County, Ohio
Unspecified amount
The John Earhart Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of John Earhart, a dedicated minister and community leader who impacted many lives through his service and commitment to education. This scholarship is available to current college students attending Zane State College or Ohio University Zanesville, majoring in Social Work, and holding a minimum 2.5 GPA. It aims to support students who aspire to make a difference in their communities, reflecting John's belief in the power of education.
Academic Scholarship Programs

MRAC Emergency Relief Grant

Metropolitan Regional Arts Council
Private
Anoka County, Minnesota, Carver County, Minnesota +5 more
Up to US $500
The MRAC Emergency Relief Grant offers $500 to artists in the Twin Cities metro area facing unexpected financial hardships due to personal emergencies or natural disasters. This initiative by the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council aims to enhance arts access by supporting individuals actively engaged in creative practices. Eligibility requires applicants to be at least 18 years old and residing in one of the seven metro counties for a minimum of six months prior to application.
Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid

Tree City USA Growth Award

National Arbor Day Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Tree City USA Growth Award, presented by the National Arbor Day Foundation, recognizes communities that demonstrate exceptional tree care and engagement. Eligible communities, including towns and cities, must document at least 10 points from various sustainable forestry activities to qualify. This award not only celebrates current efforts but also encourages ongoing commitment to enhancing urban green spaces, ensuring healthier and vibrant environments for future generations.
Greening & Beautification

Kevin Umlauf Foundation Scholarship

Community Foundation of the Ozarks Inc.
Private
Greene County, Missouri
US $800
The Kevin Umlauf Foundation Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides a $750 scholarship to high school seniors or undergraduates from Christian or Greene County, Missouri. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher and demonstrate financial need through FAFSA-SAI. Participation in community service and school activities is required, along with an essay submission. This scholarship aims to support students pursuing their education at select institutions.
Education - Higher Education

Southwest Missouri Public Relations Society of America's Dr. Joe McAdoo Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation of the Ozarks Inc.
Private
Greene County, Missouri, Jasper County, Missouri +1 more
US $1,500
The Southwest Missouri Public Relations Society of America's Dr. Joe McAdoo Memorial Scholarship offers a $1,200 scholarship for undergraduate students entering their third or fourth year or postgraduate students pursuing degrees in Communications or Public Relations. Applicants must attend one of the designated universities and maintain a GPA of 2.5 or above. The scholarship requires an essay detailing community service and work experience, promoting values of integrity, respect, and collaboration.
News Media & Communications

John R. Coleman Traveling Fellowship

Archaeological Institute of America
Association/Society
France, Greece +4 more
US $12,000
The John R. Coleman Traveling Fellowship, awarded by the Archaeological Institute of America, supports U.S. graduate students engaged in dissertation research. It honors John R. Coleman’s legacy, facilitating travel and study in Italy and the western Mediterranean. Candidates must submit a report post-fellowship and are encouraged to present at the AIA Annual Meeting. The fellowship fosters inclusivity and does not support excavation projects or administrative costs, ensuring a focus on academic advancement and cultural appreciation.
Archaeology

CAAP Community Impact Grant Program

Arab Community Center For Economic And Social Services
Private
United States
Up to US $10,000
The Center for Arab American Philanthropy (CAAP) Grant supports Arab American organizations in arts, culture, media, and human services. Grants of up to $10,000 are available to U.S.-based nonprofits that serve the Arab American community and hold valid 501(c)(3) status. CAAP aims to strengthen community organizations and foster philanthropy, ensuring impactful support for eligible groups dedicated to empowering the Arab American population across the nation.
Minority Services Middle Eastern / North African Culture & Heritage

Individual Artist Fellowship: Literary Arts

Kentucky Arts Council
State/Local Government
Kentucky
US $7,500
The Individual Artist Fellowship, offered by the Kentucky Arts Council, provides a competitive $7,500 award to professional artists in Kentucky. This fellowship recognizes creative excellence and is based on the quality of submitted work samples. Applicants must demonstrate a high level of achievement in their field and have been Kentucky residents for at least one year. The award is unrestricted, allowing artists to use the funds to enhance their careers in various ways.
Artist Training & Development

Olivia James Traveling Fellowship

Archaeological Institute of America
Association/Society
Cyprus, Greece +4 more
US $25,000
The Olivia James Traveling Fellowship, offered by the Archaeological Institute of America, supports U.S. citizens in conducting travel and research in Greece and surrounding regions. The fellowship emphasizes archaeological inquiry and understanding while requiring recipients to submit reports and abstracts post-tenure. Preference is given to dissertation research and projects lasting at least six months. The fellowship promotes inclusivity, ensuring equal opportunity for applicants from diverse backgrounds, while explicitly prohibiting major concurrent fellowships.
Archaeology

NCAAA Older American’s Act Grant

North Central Area Agency On Aging Inc
Private
Connecticut
Up to US $5,000
The NCAAA Older American’s Act Grant, managed by the North Central Area Agency on Aging, aims to enhance service systems for older adults in Connecticut. Its objectives include supporting independence, removing barriers to personal and economic freedom, and ensuring a continuum of care for vulnerable seniors. This grant focuses on comprehensive planning, resource development, and advocacy, ensuring older individuals receive the necessary services to thrive in their communities.
Senior Services

Alaska Office of History and Archaeology: Historic Preservation Grants

Alaska Office of History and Archaeology
State/Local Government
Alaska
Up to US $50,000
The Alaska Office of History and Archaeology offers Historic Preservation Grants to support the rehabilitation of historic properties. Eligible applicants include individuals, non-profits, and local governments. The program provides up to 60% funding with a 40% cost-sharing match for various projects such as surveys, inventory, and planning. All work must adhere to The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Treatment of Historic Properties, ensuring the preservation of the property's historic character.
Historic Preservation

The Archaeology of Portugal Fellowship

Archaeological Institute of America
Association/Society
Portugal, United States
Up to US $6,000
The Archaeology of Portugal Fellowship, offered by the Archaeological Institute of America, supports research on the archaeology of Portugal, including its Autonomous Regions. It is open to Portuguese nationals for study in the US and encourages diverse archaeological inquiries. Applicants must provide evidence of citizenship, project plans, and transcripts as needed. The fellowship aligns with AIA's mission to promote archaeological understanding and preserve cultural heritage, fostering appreciation of diverse cultures.
Archaeology

DAI Fellowship for Study in Berlin

Archaeological Institute of America
Association/Society
Germany
Unspecified amount
The DAI Fellowship for Study in Berlin offers two post-doctoral research fellowships to North American AIA members. Each fellowship lasts up to two months and covers travel, a daily allowance, and accommodation at the DAI guest house. Selected fellows must have a Ph.D. and submit a detailed research proposal. The program emphasizes scholarly merit and encourages family accommodations, supporting equal opportunity in its selection process.
Archaeology

Richard C. MacDonald Iliad Endowment for Archaeological Research Grant

Archaeological Institute of America
Association/Society
Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina +6 more
Up to US $20,000
The Richard C. MacDonald Iliad Endowment for Archaeological Research Grant supports innovative projects that explore the context of Troy and the Trojan War's influence on ancient Mediterranean civilization. Open to PhD holders in archaeology, the grant encourages the use of advanced technologies such as GIS and LiDAR. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the mission, project feasibility, and potential impact. AIA promotes inclusivity and does not discriminate based on personal attributes, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants.
Archaeology

RMS-SEPM Scholarships: Fluvial Sedimentology Research Grant

Society for Sedimentary Geology (SEPM)
Association/Society
Arizona, Colorado +7 more
US $2,000
The RMS-SEPM Scholarships for Fluvial Sedimentology Research Grant supports Ph.D. or Master’s degree candidates conducting research in fluvial sedimentology. This $2,000 grant is exclusively available to students at U.S. universities, specifically those engaged in studies or research in states like Montana, North Dakota, and Colorado. The Society for Sedimentary Geology (SEPM) offers this opportunity to foster academic growth in sedimentology and related fields.
Geology

RMS-SEPM Scholarships: Edwin D. McKee Grant

Society for Sedimentary Geology (SEPM)
Association/Society
Arizona, Colorado +7 more
US $2,000
The RMS-SEPM Scholarships, specifically the Edwin D. McKee Grant, provides $2,000 for undergraduate and graduate students conducting sedimentological research in the Rocky Mountain region. Sponsored by the Society for Sedimentary Geology, this scholarship aims to support students at universities within the U.S. Preference is given to those studying in states like Montana, Colorado, and New Mexico, promoting a deeper understanding of sedimentology and its applications.
Geology

GM on Main Street Grant Program

National Main Street Center Inc.
Private
Adams County, Colorado, Arapahoe County, Colorado +46 more
US $60,000
The GM on Main Street Grant Program, led by Main Street America, focuses on enhancing the safety and vibrancy of downtowns through innovative road safety and traffic calming projects. Funded by General Motors, this program seeks transformative ideas that promote pedestrian safety and accessibility, making downtown areas more inviting for residents and visitors. Eligible applicants include non-profits and local governments in designated counties, with a strong emphasis on projects that are inclusive, feasible, and easily replicable.
Automotive Safety

The Betty Skipp Research Award for Field Studies in the Rocky Mountains

Tobacco Root Geological Society
Private
Colorado, Idaho +3 more
Up to US $1,200
The Betty Skipp Research Award supports women graduate students conducting original geological fieldwork in the Rocky Mountains. This prestigious award, funded by the Tobacco Root Geological Society, provides scholarships of up to $1200 to facilitate impactful research in states like Idaho, Montana, Utah, Colorado, and Wyoming. Since its inception, the society has awarded over $156,500 to more than 222 students, promoting academic growth and professional development in the geosciences.
Geology

Taking Back the Trades! Trades School Grant Program- Round 4

Illinois Community College Board
State/Local Government
Illinois
Up to US $350,000
The Taking Back the Trades! Trades School Grant Program, funded by the Illinois Community College Board, aims to enhance career pathways in the trades for underserved youth in Illinois. With $5 million allocated, this initiative addresses high youth unemployment and low graduation rates by providing access to essential vocational training. This program not only strengthens the workforce but also revitalizes the state's trades, ensuring a robust infrastructure for the future.
Vocational & Trade Education

Expanding Engagement Grant

City of Boston
State/Local Government
Suffolk County, Massachusetts
Up to US $49,999
The Expanding Engagement Grant from the City of Boston's Age Strong Commission aims to enhance social engagement for older adults in the city. By funding grassroots organizations, the grant focuses on outreach and programming for underserved communities. The program supports various grant levels, ensuring that resources are accessible to all neighborhoods. With a commitment to fostering community connections, this initiative seeks to empower Bostonians aged 55 and older to live vibrant, engaged lives.
Senior Services

Adult Education State Grants

Connecticut State Department of Education
State/Local Government
Connecticut
Unspecified amount
The Connecticut State Department of Education offers Adult Education State Grants to support programs for adult learners in Connecticut. These grants are based on eligible costs and are available to local education agencies that provide or facilitate adult education services. Eligible applicants can include school districts and educational service centers working collaboratively to enhance educational opportunities for adults. This initiative aims to improve access to education and foster lifelong learning in the community.
Adult Education

Health & Human Services Community Grant Cycle

Community Foundation of Lorain County
Private
Lorain County, Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Health & Human Services Community Grant Cycle provides essential operating and project support for organizations serving residents of Lorain County. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt organizations classified as 501(c)(3) charities, focusing on innovative programs that address community needs. Applicants must adhere to accountability and sustainability requirements while fulfilling prior reporting obligations. The grant encourages diversified funding and prioritizes programs that foster collaboration within the community.
Human & Social Services Health & Medicine

Perkins Leadership Grant

Illinois Community College Board
State/Local Government
Illinois
US $50,000 - US $150,000
The Perkins Leadership Grant, funded by the Illinois Community College Board, aims to enhance Career and Technical Education (CTE) programming across Illinois community colleges. With approximately $1 million in federal funds, the grant focuses on three key objectives: aligning College and Career Pathway Endorsements with Postsecondary Programs, enhancing student-centered support services for CTE students, and expanding innovative delivery models. This initiative seeks to improve educational outcomes and accessibility for over 500,000 residents annually.
Vocational & Trade Education

BioLEAP Classroom Grant

National Anti Vivisection Society
Private
United States
Up to US $1,000
The BioLEAP Classroom Grant, funded by the National Anti Vivisection Society, provides educators with up to $1,000 to purchase humane anatomy models, replacing traditional animal dissection methods. This initiative supports the use of innovative learning tools like 3D digital models and synthetic specimens, enhancing educational experiences while promoting ethical practices in science education. Eligible applicants must be U.S. educators teaching an anatomy lab in the upcoming school year.
STEM / STEAM Education

Alice R. Moomy Pennsylvania State University Scholarship

Erie Community Foundation
Private
Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, Beaver County, Pennsylvania +19 more
Unspecified amount
The Alice R. Moomy Pennsylvania State University Scholarship, offered by the Erie Community Foundation, awards funds to Erie County students pursuing degrees in STEM or nursing at any Penn State campus. With over $800,000 distributed in 2023, this scholarship aims to support academically promising individuals, particularly encouraging female applicants with a minimum GPA of 3.0. It reflects a commitment to enhancing educational opportunities within the community.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Dr. Alfred W. Stone Scholarship

Erie Community Foundation
Private
Crawford County, Pennsylvania, Erie County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Dr. Alfred W. Stone Scholarship, offered by the Erie Community Foundation, supports students pursuing degrees in psychology, art, education, or technology. Eligible applicants must have graduated from a PA high school or cyber school and completed their first year at Allegheny College or Edinboro University with a minimum GPA of 3.0. This scholarship can be renewed for up to three years, contingent upon academic progress.
Academic Scholarship Programs

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.