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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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Filters

32,410 Results based on applied filters

Earl and Fay Doney EHHD Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Earl and Fay Doney EHHD Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in Elementary Education, Early Childhood Education, or Counseling. Applicants must be Montana high school graduates and enrolled full-time. Notably, the scholarship waives these requirements for staff of the Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, enhancing accessibility for those affiliated with this community. This scholarship exemplifies MSU's commitment to fostering education and development in the health and human services fields.
Education - Higher Education

Earl and Fay Doney Electrical Engineering Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Earl and Fay Doney Electrical Engineering Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering. Applicants must be Montana high school graduates and enrolled as full-time students. Priority is given to current or former students and staff of the Yellowstone Academy at the Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch. Notably, the scholarship requirements are waived for staff of the Ranch, ensuring accessibility to education for deserving candidates.
Education - Higher Education

Earl and Pauline Webb Memorial Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Earl and Pauline Webb Memorial Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports undergraduate students pursuing degrees in Agriculture. Annually, two scholarships are awarded specifically to students in Agricultural Education and other Agriculture-related fields. Preference is given to Montana high school graduates. This scholarship not only fosters academic growth but also contributes to the development of future leaders in the agricultural sector.
Education - Higher Education

Earl R. McCulloch-Artcraft Printers Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Earl R. McCulloch-Artcraft Printers Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree from the School of Art. Preference is given to children of Artcraft Printers employees, those demonstrating financial need, and graduates of Bozeman or Belgrade High Schools. This scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to providing transformative education and fostering talent in the arts.
Education - Higher Education

Spanos Family Memorial Scholarship

Erie Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Spanos Family Memorial Scholarship, funded by the Erie Community Foundation, offers financial support to outstanding students who are active members of the Assumption Greek Orthodox Church in Erie. In 2023, over $800,000 in scholarships were awarded to more than 500 students pursuing higher education. Applications are evaluated based on merit, academic performance, financial need, and community involvement, ensuring that deserving individuals receive the assistance they need to succeed in their educational endeavors.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Frank Dreyer Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Frank Dreyer Scholarship at Montana State University is designed for undergraduate students pursuing degrees in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Earth Science, Ecology, Mathematical Sciences, or Physics. It reflects MSU's commitment to providing transformative educational opportunities to students. As one of the original land-grant colleges, MSU aims to enhance access to quality higher education, fostering both individual and community development through its scholarship offerings.
Education - Higher Education

Frank Gruden of Roundup Memorial Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Frank Gruden of Roundup Memorial Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in Nursing or Education. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, and be in their junior or senior year. This scholarship aims to empower students to achieve their educational goals and contribute positively to their communities. With limited availability, it provides essential financial assistance to deserving candidates, facilitating access to quality higher education.
Education - Higher Education

Frank L. Eckard Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Frank L. Eckard Scholarship at Montana State University is designed for students pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering. To qualify, applicants must be juniors with a minimum GPA of 3.25. Preference is given to those demonstrating financial need. This scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to fostering educational opportunities that empower students to excel in their academic and professional pursuits, significantly impacting their communities.
Education - Higher Education

Frank Preston Business Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Frank Preston Business Scholarship at Montana State University supports Montana high school graduates pursuing a degree at the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. This scholarship is intended for students demonstrating financial need, who are either juniors or seniors with a minimum GPA of 3.0. It aims to enhance access to higher education and foster community development through business education.
Education - Higher Education

Frank R. and Dorothy M. Gruden Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Frank R. and Dorothy M. Gruden Scholarship at Montana State University supports incoming freshmen pursuing degrees in Nursing or Education. To qualify, applicants must be graduates from Montana or Wyoming high schools, demonstrate financial need, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.8. This scholarship aims to empower students to achieve their educational goals and contribute positively to their communities.
Education - Higher Education

The Pay-It-Forward Scholarship

Erie Community Foundation
Private
Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, Beaver County, Pennsylvania +19 more
Unspecified amount
The Pay-It-Forward Scholarship, offered by the Erie Community Foundation, supports Erie County residents enrolled as sophomores, juniors, or seniors at any Penn State University campus. Eligible students must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5, submit a 350-500 word essay, and provide two letters of recommendation while also working part-time. In 2023, over $800,000 in scholarships were awarded to more than 500 students, helping them pursue their educational goals.
Academic Scholarship Programs

MSU Engineering Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The MSU Engineering Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports students pursuing degrees in the Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering. Founded in 1893, MSU is committed to providing transformative education and opportunities. This scholarship aims to enhance access to higher education for incoming engineering students, ensuring they can achieve their academic and professional goals. With a limited number of scholarships available, it represents a significant investment in the future of engineering and innovation.
Education - Higher Education

Frank R. Beckley Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Frank R. Beckley Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports students enrolled in the Pre-Veterinary Program or those planning to attend an accredited School of Veterinary Medicine. Eligible applicants must be Montana residents, have sophomore status or above, and maintain a minimum 3.2 GPA. This scholarship aims to empower students pursuing careers in veterinary medicine, fostering educational opportunities that can transform lives and communities.
Education - Higher Education

Fred and Virginia Traeger Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Fred and Virginia Traeger Scholarship at Montana State University supports undergraduate students pursuing a degree in Agricultural Business. This scholarship prioritizes graduates from Montana high schools, especially those from Roosevelt and Eastern Montana. With a minimum GPA of 3.0 required, it aims to empower students who show potential in agricultural economics and management. By providing financial assistance, this scholarship facilitates access to quality education, fostering growth in the agricultural sector and local communities.
Education - Higher Education

OneOhio Regional Grant Cycle 2

Oneohio Recovery Foundation
Private
Ohio
More than US $25,000
The OneOhio Recovery Foundation's Regional Grant Cycle 2 aims to fund organizations addressing substance use disorders in Ohio. This initiative supports local efforts in prevention, treatment, and recovery, utilizing a portion of funds from the pharmaceutical industry due to the opioid crisis. Eligible applicants must align their proposed services with the foundation's approved purposes, ensuring a direct benefit to individuals with substance use disorders and their families.
Addiction & Substance Use Disorders

Frederick Brian Walter Civil Engineering Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Frederick Brian Walter Civil Engineering Scholarship at Montana State University supports Montana residents pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering. This scholarship aims to assist students demonstrating financial need, contributing to the university's commitment to providing transformative education. MSU, established in 1893, continues to offer various scholarships, enhancing access to higher education for incoming students and fostering community development through engineering education.
Education - Higher Education

Friends of Classic Open Golf Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Friends of Classic Open Golf Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree from the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. This scholarship is part of the university's commitment to providing access to transformative education and fostering student success. It aims to assist incoming students in their academic journey, promoting excellence in business education and community engagement.
Education - Higher Education

Gallatin Beef Producers Association Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Gallatin Beef Producers Association Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports undergraduate students pursuing a degree in Agriculture. Preference is given to recipients with family ties to the Gallatin Beef Producers organization or those who are graduates from specific counties in Montana. This scholarship aims to empower students within the agricultural field by providing financial assistance to those in need.
Education - Higher Education

Fulfilling Potential Program Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Fulfilling Potential Program Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees or certificates at Gallatin College. It emphasizes financial need and residency in Gallatin or Park County, Montana. This scholarship is part of MSU's commitment to providing transformative educational opportunities, fostering workforce development, and ensuring access to higher education for deserving students. With limited availability, it aims to uplift local communities by empowering students to achieve their academic goals.
Education - Higher Education

Gallatin College MSU Scholarship (Fall)

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Gallatin College MSU Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees or certificates from Gallatin College. This scholarship is part of the college's commitment to workforce development and aims to provide financial assistance to incoming students. Established in 1893, MSU has a rich history of transforming lives through education, research, and outreach. A limited number of scholarships are available, reflecting MSU's dedication to accessible higher education.
Education - Higher Education

Gallatin Lodge 6 Masonic Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Gallatin Lodge 6 Masonic Scholarship at Montana State University is aimed at supporting local students pursuing degrees or certificates at Gallatin College. Applicants must be Montana residents with a minimum GPA of 2.5. Preference is given to those demonstrating financial need and who are graduates of Montana high schools or possess a GED. This scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to accessible higher education and community transformation.
Education - Higher Education

Gallatin Lodge 6 Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Gallatin Lodge 6 Scholarship at Montana State University supports first-generation college students pursuing a degree in nursing. Established in 1893, MSU provides transformative educational opportunities. This scholarship is specifically aimed at Montana high school graduates, enhancing access to higher education for those who may face financial barriers. With a limited number of awards available, this initiative emphasizes the importance of community support and investment in the future of nursing professionals in Montana.
Education - Higher Education

Gallatin Valley Ag Committee Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Gallatin Valley Ag Committee Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports students pursuing a degree in Agriculture. Applicants must be Montana high school graduates, undergraduate students with a minimum 2.5 GPA, and demonstrate leadership and community involvement. Preference is given to graduates from Gallatin County. This scholarship aims to foster academic excellence and community engagement among future agricultural leaders.
Education - Higher Education

Garsjo-Bartram Family Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Garsjo-Bartram Family Scholarship at Montana State University supports incoming freshmen who are graduates of Valley County high schools. Established to promote education, this scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to transforming lives through accessible higher education. Students pursuing degrees at MSU can benefit from this opportunity, furthering their academic and personal growth while contributing to their communities.
Education - Higher Education

Gary Bracken Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Gary Bracken Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees from the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. Established in 1893, MSU has a long-standing commitment to education and community transformation through scholarships. This opportunity is available to incoming students, encouraging them to embark on their academic journey in business. With a focus on accessibility and excellence, the scholarship aims to empower future leaders in the field.
Education - Higher Education

Gary J. and Boyd A. Smith Memorial Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Gary J. and Boyd A. Smith Memorial Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree in Elementary Education. This scholarship aims to assist those who demonstrate financial need, ensuring access to quality education. Founded in 1893, MSU is a prestigious institution dedicated to transformative higher education, focusing on the mission of education, research, and outreach. This scholarship exemplifies MSU's commitment to fostering future educators.
Education - Higher Education

Gary Long Math Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Gary Long Math Scholarship at Montana State University supports Montana high school graduates pursuing a degree in Mathematics. This scholarship is designed for students with sophomore status or above, who can demonstrate financial need. By offering financial assistance, this scholarship aims to empower students in their educational journey and contribute to their success in the field of Mathematical Sciences.
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.

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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