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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

Society of American Archivists Foundation: Catalyst Grant

Society of American Archivists
Association/Society
United States
US $500 - US $5,000
The Society of American Archivists Foundation Catalyst Grant provides funding ranging from $500 to $5,000 to support complex archival projects that advance the strategic goals of the SAA. This program prioritizes projects that foster best practices, such as processing and digitization of archives, and is open to non-profit archival repositories and individual archivists affiliated with member organizations. It aims to benefit the archival profession as a whole.
Historical Records & Archives

i-STEM Instructor Stipend

Idaho Stem Action Center Foundation
Private
Idaho
More than US $2,000
The i-STEM Instructor Stipend offers an exciting opportunity for educators and industry professionals to collaborate in enhancing STEM education in Idaho. Participants will lead a 4-day workshop, delivering hands-on instruction and creating materials kits for educators. Instructors will receive a $2000 stipend, travel reimbursement, and support for substitute costs, while assistants from Idaho's education sector can also receive stipends. This initiative aims to connect classroom learning with real-world applications.
STEM / STEAM Education

Toraji & Toki Yoshinaga Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Honolulu County, Hawaii
Approximately US $6,000
The Toraji & Toki Yoshinaga Scholarship Fund, established in 1996 by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, supports students attending BYU-Hawaii, Chaminade University, or Hawaii Pacific University. Award amounts vary, typically averaging around $6,000, based on financial need and academic standing. Applicants must be residents of Hawai‘i and maintain at least a 2.0 GPA. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility criteria.
Education - Higher Education

Travel Reimbursements

Idaho Stem Action Center Foundation
Private
Idaho
Unspecified amount
Travel reimbursements are available for individuals attending approved STEM AC events. Participants will receive a reimbursement link via email after their attendance is confirmed. It is essential to complete the required forms and attach necessary documents promptly to avoid delays. Familiarize yourself with the reimbursement limits and policies of both STEM AC and Idaho. Payments may take up to 30 days after submission, ensuring timely responses to any inquiries.
STEM / STEAM Education

Folklife Artist Grant

Nevada Arts Council (NAC)
State/Local Government
Nevada
Up to US $3,000
The Folklife Artist Grant from the Nevada Arts Council supports traditional arts projects led by folk artists and culture bearers. Projects should focus on the transmission of folk arts within specific Nevada communities, covering learning and presentation activities. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, including federal tax-exempt status and good standing with the Nevada Secretary of State. Grants are awarded based on eligibility and funding availability, emphasizing artistic merit and community representation.
Folk Art / Traditional Art

Grassroots Grants Program (GGP)

American Golf Industry Coalition
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount
The Grassroots Grants Program (GGP) aims to enhance participation in golf among underrepresented communities, including racial minorities, women, and veterans. Launched in May 2021, it has awarded $1.8 million to 155 organizations, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the sport. The program supports tax-exempt organizations focused on self-sustainability and offers funding for golf instruction, equipment, and access to facilities. Priority is given to those not receiving substantial backing from major golf organizations.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Golf

Maryland Victims of Crime Fund

Maryland Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention, Youth, and Victim Services
State/Local Government
Maryland
US $50,000 - US $75,000

Description

The Maryland Victims of Crime Fund, administered by the State Board of Victim Services under the authority of the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention, Youth, and Victim Services, provides for advocacy and support services to victims of crime through the creation of new ideas and the enhancement of existing programs in Maryland.

History

The Maryland Victims of Crime Fund was created by the Maryland General Assembly during the 1991 Legislative Session. This legislation created a source of revenue for programs across Maryland serving victims of crime. The primary purpose of the Fund is to ensure implementation of the Declaration of Crime Victims’ Rights Amendment to the Maryland Constitution and the Federal Guidelines for treatment of and assistance to crime victims and witnesses, along with other laws adopted to benefit victims and witnesses of crime.

Crime Victim Services

Maryland Historic Preservation Capital Grant

Maryland Historical Trust
State/Local Government
Maryland
US $10,000 - US $100,000

Preserving & interpreting the legacy of Maryland's past

The Maryland Historical Trust (MHT) supports historic preservation and revitalization by providing funding and resources to care for historic sites. MHT serves as the State Historic Preservation Office and operates Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum.

Funding

The Maryland Historical Trust (MHT) provides grants, tax credits, and loans for a variety of historic preservation projects. Explore our funding programs below.

Historic Preservation Capital Grant Program

The Historic Preservation Capital Grant Program, administered by the Maryland Historical Trust (MHT), provides $1 million in funding for the preservation of Maryland’s historic properties and sites. This grant program offers money for important and urgently needed preservation projects that benefit the public.

Historic Preservation

U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation: Sullenberger Award for Courage

Air Force Academy Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Sullenberger Award for Courage, presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation, recognizes exemplary acts of bravery by graduates of the Academy. This prestigious award honors those who demonstrate outstanding leadership and service, reflecting the core values of integrity, service before self, and excellence. Nominations can be submitted by anyone, and the award celebrates acts that positively impact the Academy and its legacy.
Military & Veterans Services

U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation: Leadership Achievement Award

Air Force Academy Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation's Leadership Achievement Award recognizes alumni who have exemplified exceptional leadership, integrity, and character in their professional endeavors. This prestigious honor is awarded to graduates who have achieved notable accomplishments 16 to 39 years post-graduation, thereby enriching the legacy of the Long Blue Line. Nominations must be submitted by fellow graduates and reapplication is necessary for previous nominees.
Military & Veterans Services

U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation: Distinguished Graduate Award

Air Force Academy Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation honors exceptional graduates with the Distinguished Graduate Award, recognizing their significant contributions to the nation and communities over the past 40 years. This prestigious award celebrates those who exemplify the core values of integrity, service, and excellence, serving as an inspiration for current cadets and graduates. Nomination is exclusive to U.S. Air Force Academy alumni, reinforcing the legacy of the Long Blue Line.
Military & Veterans Services

Bentley and Roberta Pollard Family Scholarship

Community Foundation of West Texas
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Bentley and Roberta Pollard Family Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of West Texas, honors the legacy of Bentley and Roberta Pollard. This scholarship supports Gold Star families and families of U.S. military veterans seeking higher education. It aims to empower students from Lubbock County high schools, emphasizing financial need and the importance of education in building a brighter future for the community. Over 100 scholarships are awarded annually to deserving individuals.
Education - Higher Education

Fred Harris Daniels Foundation: Capital Grants

The Fred Harris Daniels Foundation
Private
Worcester County, Massachusetts
Unspecified amount
The Fred Harris Daniels Foundation offers Capital Grants to 501(c)(3) organizations in the Worcester, MA area, focusing on building construction or improvements. These grants support sustainable solutions to local challenges, particularly for programs benefiting girls aged 10-14. Applications are considered annually, with funding typically spread over three years. Emphasizing arts, culture, education, and social services, the Foundation prioritizes projects near Worcester City, aiming to enhance community self-reliance.
Women & Girl Services

CFTV: Opportunity Fund

The Community Foundation of Jackson Hole
Private
Teton County, Idaho, Teton County, Wyoming
Unspecified amount
The Community Emergency Response Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Teton Valley, provides financial assistance to community members affected by emergencies. This fund is part of the Foundation's Opportunity Fund, which aims to elevate lives through generosity and support for the nonprofit sector. Residents in need are encouraged to reach out for assistance to navigate these challenging times.
Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid

Rewarding Responders Grant

We Energies Foundation Inc
Private
Adams County, Wisconsin, Alger County, Michigan +61 more
Up to US $2,000
The Rewarding Responders Grant, offered by the We Energies Foundation, supports local public safety agencies with funding up to $2,000 per project. Eligible projects include equipment purchases and professional training that enhance safety initiatives within the communities served by the foundation. Grants must be utilized within two years, and projects should be special, one-time efforts. This initiative emphasizes the importance of safety and well-planned public safety responses.
First Responders

University of Redlands Hawai'i Scholarship

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Marin County, California, Riverside County, California +1 more
Approximately US $6,000
The University of Redlands Hawai'i Scholarship, established in 1997 by the University of Redlands and its Hawai'i Alumni Club, aims to support Hawai'i residents attending the university. This scholarship fosters connections between the islands and the institution, with awards varying from $1,000 to several thousand dollars, averaging around $6,000. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, promoting academic success and community engagement.
Education - Higher Education

Alexa Lindsey Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation Of The Holland Zeeland Area
Private
Allegan County, Michigan, Ottawa County, Michigan
Unspecified amount

Alexa Lindsey Memorial Scholarship

Graduating senior, graduating early college student, or current college student from a public, private, or home school in the primary service area of the Community Foundation

Education - Higher Education

Watanabe "Go For It" Scholarship fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Approximately US $6,000
The Watanabe "Go For It" Scholarship Fund, established by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, aims to support residents of Hawaii with financial need who have a GPA of at least 2.0 and attend a community college in the state. Scholarships range from $1,000 to several thousand dollars, with an average award of approximately $6,000. Priority is given to returning recipients, first-generation students, and those with a GPA of 2.5 or higher.
Education - Higher Education

Furniss Foundation Grant

The Natalie W. Furniss Foundation
Private
New Jersey
Approximately US $3,000
The Natalie W. Furniss Foundation Grant supports organizations dedicated to the humane treatment of animals. Established in 1974, the foundation provides funding to 501(c)(3) organizations, particularly those in New Jersey. Applications are accepted year-round, with a focus on humane societies and similar organizations that prevent cruelty to animals. This grant exemplifies a commitment to animal welfare and environmental stewardship, reflecting the foundation's mission to promote humane practices.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Rotary Club of Portsmouth: Helping Professions Grant

The Charitable Division
Private
United States
Up to US $5,000
The Rotary Club of Portsmouth's Helping Professions Grant provides essential financial support to residents of the Seacoast looking to enter or advance in direct care professions. With scholarships and grants of up to $5,000, this initiative aims to address the growing shortage of skilled caregivers, ensuring quality care for families and individuals in the community. Eligible applicants can pursue training in various in-demand roles, enhancing their skills and career prospects.
Medical Education & Professional Training

Rotary Club of Portsmouth: Basic Needs Grant

The Charitable Division
Private
Rockingham County, New Hampshire
Approximately US $2,500
The Rotary Club of Portsmouth's Basic Needs Grant Fund provides essential support for food, shelter, healthcare, and clothing to families in the Portsmouth community. Funded through local fundraising events, this grant aims to address basic needs, particularly for children. With no fixed grant amounts, typical awards are around $2,500, and applicants can reapply annually, ensuring ongoing assistance for those in need in the greater Portsmouth area.
Basic Human Needs

Richard "Longy" and Eleanor "Sluggo" Okamoto Kamalii Manaloa Volleyball Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Richard "Longy" and Eleanor "Sluggo" Okamoto Kamalii Manaloa Volleyball Scholarship Fund, established in 2018, supports Hawaii high school seniors who have been active members of their varsity volleyball teams. This scholarship aims to empower students to pursue higher education, emphasizing the importance of academic achievement and financial need. Preference is given to first-generation college students, reinforcing the fund's commitment to fostering educational opportunities within the community.
Sports & Athletics

Swain County Community Foundation: Youth are our Future Endowment

North Carolina Community Foundation Inc
Private
Swain County, North Carolina
US $500 - US $1,250
The Swain County Community Foundation's Youth are our Future Endowment aims to enhance the quality of life for local youth. Established in 1993, this fund supports various initiatives that cater to the needs of young residents in Swain County. Grants typically range from $500 to $1,250, with a total grantmaking cap of $13,000. This initiative fosters community engagement and empowers youth through targeted funding opportunities.
Youth Services

Arts Learning: In Schools

New Mexico Arts
State/Local Government
New Mexico
US $10,000
The Arts Learning in Schools and In Community grant by New Mexico Arts supports arts education for K-12 students in both school and community settings. It invites applications from charter schools, 501(c)(3) private schools, and organizations. This initiative emphasizes creative arts activities, integration into other subjects, and professional development for educators. Eligible organizations can renew applications for subsequent funding cycles, ensuring continued support for impactful arts programs.
Art Education

Start-Up Subgrant - Planning, Implementation, Replication, and Expansion of Charter Schools

California Department of Education
State/Local Government
California
US $300,000 - US $1,900,000

California Department of Education

California will provide a world-class education for all students, from early childhood to adulthood. The Department of Education serves our state by innovating and collaborating with educators, schools, parents, and community partners. Together, as a team, we prepare students to live, work, and thrive in a multicultural, multilingual, and highly connected world.

Start-Up Subgrant For the Planning, Implementation, Replication, and Expansion of Charter Schools

Purpose and Background

The PCSGP is a subgrant program funded by the federal Charter Schools Program (CSP). The PCSGP is a discretionary grant program. California was awarded approximately $93 million in grant funds for 2024–29. States that are awarded these federal funds distribute them in subgrants to charter school developers, known as PCSGP Start-Up Subgrants in the state of California, to assist in the development and initial operations of newly established or conversion charter schools as well as to assist in the expansion and replication of high-quality charter schools.

PCSGP Start-Up Subgrants identify funding levels and terms into four subgrant types: Planning, Implementation, Replication, and Expansion. For FY 2025, the CDE has an approved pipeline and budget to award approximately 14 subgrants. The actual number and type of subgrants awarded during each RFA competition may vary based on demand. If all authorized awards are not approved for funding, the CDE may open additional RFA competition events for new applicants until all of the allocated funds have been awarded.

Education - K through 12

CMCF: Education Endowment Grant Program

Central Montcalm Community Foundation
Private
Montcalm County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The CMCF Education Endowment Grant Program aims to enhance educational opportunities for students in the Central Montcalm area. Funded by the Central Montcalm Community Foundation, this program provides grants and scholarships for student enrichment initiatives, promoting learning and self-esteem. The foundation ensures that the annual earnings from endowed funds support long-term community needs while maintaining the principal for future generations. Teachers and administrators are encouraged to apply for these grants to foster educational growth.
Academic Success & Enrichment

The Local Preservation Partners Grant

Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development
State/Local Government
Connecticut
US $5,000 - US $100,000
The Institutional Support for Capacity Building Grant for Historic Preservation Nonprofits, offered by the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, aims to enhance the operational capacity of local nonprofit historic preservation organizations. This grant provides funding based on organizational budgets, ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 per year. By fostering greater stability and capabilities, the program supports the effective management and planning of historic preservation initiatives, ultimately benefiting the communities these organizations serve.
Historic Preservation

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.