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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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32,305 Results based on applied filters

Glen L. Martin Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Glen L. Martin Scholarship at Montana State University supports undergraduate students pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering. This scholarship is part of the university's commitment to providing accessible education since its founding in 1893. With a limited number of scholarships available for incoming students, it aims to transform lives and communities through higher education in engineering disciplines.
Education - Higher Education

Glenn H. and Lyla E. Lehrer Construction Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Glenn H. and Lyla E. Lehrer Construction Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree in Construction Engineering Technology. With a focus on full-time undergraduate students, preference is given to graduate students, veterans, and those with dependents. This scholarship aims to help transform lives through education, reflecting MSU's commitment to accessibility and community development since its founding in 1893.
Education - Higher Education

Glen Turney Engineering Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Glen Turney Engineering Scholarship at Montana State University supports undergraduate students pursuing a degree in engineering. It is aimed at Montana high school graduates, particularly those from Beaverhead and Broadwater counties. This scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to accessible education, fostering talent and innovation in the engineering field, and transforming lives and communities through higher education.
Education - Higher Education

Gloria E. Wheeler Mathematics Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Gloria E. Wheeler Mathematics Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports students pursuing a degree in Mathematics. This scholarship is part of the university's commitment to providing accessible education and fostering academic excellence. With a limited number of awards available for incoming students, it aims to enrich the academic journey of future mathematicians at MSU, enhancing their ability to contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Education - Higher Education

Grace Rosness Memorial Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Grace Rosness Memorial Scholarship at Montana State University supports American Indian and Alaska Native students pursuing a degree at the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. Eligible candidates must be Montana high school graduates, full-time students with a minimum 2.5 GPA, and involved in extracurricular activities. This scholarship aims to empower students to achieve their educational goals and contribute to their communities.
Education - Higher Education

Graduate Counseling Max Hay Foundation Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Graduate Counseling Max Hay Foundation Scholarship at Montana State University supports graduate students pursuing degrees in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Marriage, Couples and Family Counseling, or School Counseling. Founded in 1893, MSU offers a rich history of educational excellence and community transformation through various scholarships aimed at aiding incoming students. This scholarship is a valuable opportunity for aspiring counselors to enhance their education and impact the lives of others.
Education - Higher Education

Graduate Return to Learn Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
US $500
The Graduate Return to Learn Scholarship at Montana State University offers $500 per semester for up to one semester, aimed at supporting graduate students who have stepped away from their studies for a year or more. This scholarship assists individuals in re-engaging with their academic journey and provides the necessary financial support to help them return to coursework after a break. Eligible candidates must meet specific qualifications to apply.
Education - Higher Education

Graduate School Fellowship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Graduate School Fellowship at Montana State University supports students enrolled in Master's or Doctoral programs. Established in 1893, MSU is dedicated to providing transformative education and research opportunities. Scholarships are available for incoming students through various colleges and departments. This fellowship not only fosters academic growth but also enhances community engagement, making it a vital resource for aspiring graduate students seeking to advance their studies and careers.
Education - Higher Education

Graduate Student Engineering Award

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Graduate Student Engineering Award at Montana State University supports graduate students pursuing degrees in engineering. It aims to empower those from underrepresented populations and recognizes leadership potential. With a legacy dating back to 1893, MSU has a commitment to transforming lives through education and research. This award not only provides financial assistance but also fosters an inclusive academic environment, making it a valuable opportunity for aspiring engineers.
Education - Higher Education

Graphic Design Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Graphic Design Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree in Graphic Design. This scholarship emphasizes academic excellence and financial need, providing crucial assistance to incoming students. As part of MSU's commitment to education and community transformation, this award fosters creativity and skill development in the arts, ensuring that talented individuals have access to valuable educational resources.
Education - Higher Education

Great Falls Society of Architects Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Great Falls Society of Architects Scholarship at Montana State University supports second to fourth year students pursuing a degree in Environmental Design. Eligible candidates must be graduates from specific counties in Montana. This scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to providing educational opportunities that transform lives and communities through architecture and design. With limited availability, it aims to foster talent in the field of architecture for future generations.
Education - Higher Education

Great West Engineering Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Great West Engineering Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in Civil or Environmental Engineering. To qualify, applicants must be juniors or seniors with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate leadership in extracurricular activities. This scholarship aims to foster future engineers by providing financial assistance to those committed to making a positive impact in their fields and communities.
Education - Higher Education

Gregg R. Carlson Memorial Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Gregg R. Carlson Memorial Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports students pursuing degrees in Animal Science or Crop Science. Applicants must be Montana residents with sophomore, junior, or senior status and a minimum GPA of 3.0. Preference is given to students from Hill or Cascade County. This scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to providing transformative educational opportunities to local communities.
Education - Higher Education

Growing and Sustaining Pathways Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Growing and Sustaining Pathways Scholarship at Montana State University aims to support American Indian students pursuing degrees in the College of Agriculture. This scholarship promotes access to quality education while fostering the development of future leaders in agriculture. By focusing on students from federally recognized tribes, the program not only helps individuals but also strengthens communities and cultural ties. Eligible applicants can benefit from this vital financial support to achieve their academic goals.
Education - Higher Education

Gus and Niki Gnehm Memorial Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Gus and Niki Gnehm Memorial Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports students pursuing degrees while actively volunteering with the Eagle Mount Ski Program. This scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to education, research, and community outreach, aiming to transform lives through higher education. Limited scholarships are available for incoming students, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and academic achievement.
Education - Higher Education

H. Albert Saner Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The H. Albert Saner Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, provides financial support to students pursuing a degree in Chemical Engineering with sophomore status. This scholarship is part of MSU's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and fostering academic excellence. It aims to assist a limited number of incoming students, promoting access to quality education in the fields of Chemical and Biological Engineering.
Education - Higher Education

Hal Brown Memorial Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Hal Brown Memorial Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in agriculture. Open to Montana high school graduates with sophomore-level status or higher, applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.75 and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship aims to promote higher education and support students in their academic endeavors.
Education - Higher Education

Hambly Women in Computer Science Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Hambly Women in Computer Science Scholarship at Montana State University supports women pursuing degrees in computing fields. Established to encourage female representation in technology, this scholarship is part of MSU's commitment to transformative education. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in the Gianforte School of Computing. This initiative not only empowers students but also strengthens the community by fostering a diverse workforce in computer science and engineering.
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

Anna Marguerite McCann Award for Fieldwork Reports

Archaeological Institute of America
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount

Archaeological Institute of America

The AIA is North America's largest and oldest nonprofit organization dedicated to archaeology. The Institute advances awareness, education, fieldwork, preservation, publication, and research of archaeological sites and cultural heritage throughout the world. 

Grants & Awards

The AIA’s mission includes supporting and promoting archaeological research and its dissemination. To that end, the AIA offers a variety of scholarships, fellowships, and grants for excavation, research, publication, and site preservation.

Each year, the Institute also presents a number of awards to archaeologists, educators, authors, and others whose work has had a positive impact on the field of archaeology.

Anna Marguerite McCann Award for Fieldwork Reports

In keeping with the Code of Ethics of the AIA, which emphasizes the need for archaeologists to publish field research, the Anna Marguerite McCann Award for Fieldwork Reports recognizes an outstanding monograph that presents results from an archaeological field project (e.g. excavation and/or survey), as recommended by the Committee, in time for presentation of the award at the Annual Meeting of the Institute. Authors/editors of successful nominations must join the AIA as a member, if they are not already one, once they receive the award. For multi-authored or multi-edited volumes, this requirement applies only to the primary author/primary editor/principal investigator.

AIA members are encouraged to suggest publications worthy of the award by filling out the Nomination Form. Authors and publishers may also bring their books to the committee’s attention by filling out the Nomination Form and sending an electronic copy (eBook or PDF) for distribution to the committee. Publishers should nominate no more than two (2) books per year and should ensure that the books meet the criteria of the award. Books may be submitted for the award only once, and should not be re-submitted unless specifically requested by the committee.

Archaeology

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

Gary Twiford Memorial Business Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Gary Twiford Memorial Business Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree at the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship, with a focus on rural Montana residents. This scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to providing life-changing educational opportunities. It aims to assist those who are dedicated to enhancing their communities through business education, ensuring that future leaders are equipped to drive economic growth in Montana.
Education - Higher Education

Gary Williams Family Engineering Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Gary Williams Family Engineering Scholarship at Montana State University is designed to support undergraduate students pursuing a degree in engineering. To qualify, applicants must be residents of Southwest Montana and preferably graduates of Beaverhead County high schools. This scholarship aims to promote educational opportunities for local students, ensuring they have access to the resources needed for success in their engineering careers.
Education - Higher Education

Gates Family Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Gates Family Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree in Agriculture. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. This scholarship aims to aid undergraduate students and is part of the university's broader commitment to providing transformative educational opportunities. With limited availability for incoming students, it stands as a vital resource for those eager to embark on their agricultural studies.
Education - Higher Education

Geir Stoner Memorial Music Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Geir Stoner Memorial Music Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree in music, emphasizing financial need and academic success. Eligible candidates must be sophomores, juniors, or seniors with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and a strong commitment to achieving their goals. This scholarship not only aids in financial support but also fosters a passion for music within the community, aligning with MSU's mission to transform lives through education.
Education - Higher Education

Gene and Marlys Cook Engineering Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Gene and Marlys Cook Engineering Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in engineering. Established in 1893, MSU is dedicated to providing transformative education and research opportunities. This scholarship is part of the university's commitment to offering financial assistance to incoming students, promoting academic excellence and fostering future engineers. The award reflects MSU's mission to empower students and enhance community development through 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.

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.