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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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32,478 Results based on applied filters

Royal CU and ECCF Nonprofit Professional Development Grant Program

Eau Claire Community Foundation
Private
Eau Claire County, Wisconsin
Up to US $500
The Royal CU and ECCF Nonprofit Professional Development Grant Program, funded by the Eau Claire Community Foundation, supports local nonprofits in Eau Claire by providing grants for professional development training. These grants, up to $500 per training, enable nonprofit staff and board members to gain essential skills through education and strategic planning sessions, making valuable opportunities accessible that might otherwise be unaffordable.
All fields of work

Wynn Resorts Donation & In-Kind Request

Wynn Resorts, Limited
Corporate
United States
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
Wynn Resorts offers a structured donation and in-kind request process for non-profit organizations. Applications must be submitted at least 12 weeks ahead of the event, with specific documentation required for organizations in Nevada and Massachusetts. While requests from outside these areas may be considered, priority is given to local community events. Notably, certain types of requests, including those for advertising and religious purposes, are ineligible. This ensures that contributions align with the company's community initiatives.
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give256 Fund Grant

Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville
Private
Madison County, Alabama
US $2,500 - US $7,500
The give256 Fund Grant, initiated by community leaders, aims to empower emerging philanthropists in Greater Huntsville to make a collective impact. Focused on charitable, scientific, literary, or educational purposes, grants support 501(c)(3) organizations within Madison County. Priority is given to standalone projects that benefit the local community. As membership expands, the fund may also extend support beyond Madison County, addressing compelling needs in the region.
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George T. Welch Scholarship

Baker Boyer Bank
Corporate
Walla Walla County, Washington
Up to US $4,000
The George T. Welch Scholarship offers financial assistance to students from Walla Walla County who are pursuing undergraduate studies full-time. Grants, typically not exceeding $4,000, are awarded based on financial need and academic performance, requiring recipients to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. This scholarship aims to support students throughout their college journey, emphasizing the importance of educational access and achievement.
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Milton-Freewater Area Foundation Scholarship

Milton-Freewater Area Foundation
Private
Umatilla County, Oregon
Unspecified amount
The Milton-Freewater Area Foundation Scholarship supports students from the Milton-Freewater, Oregon area who demonstrate financial need. This scholarship is available for all four years of undergraduate education, requiring applicants to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 while enrolled. First-year students must have a high school GPA of 2.5 or higher. Applications are required annually, ensuring ongoing support for eligible students throughout their academic journey.
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Vesta Bascom Scholarship

Milton-Freewater Area Foundation
Private
Oregon
Unspecified amount
The Vesta Bascom Scholarship, funded by the Milton-Freewater Area Foundation, supports full-time undergraduate students from Oregon with financial need and a minimum 3.5 GPA. Scholarships are available for all four years of study, with annual applications required. Students must maintain a 2.0 GPA during college to remain eligible. Funding amounts vary, ensuring that deserving candidates receive the necessary financial support for their educational pursuits.
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Frederick S. Upton Foundation Grants

Berrien Community Foundation
Private
Berrien County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Frederick S. Upton Foundation offers grants to enhance the quality of life in Berrien County, Michigan. With a mission rooted in community love and cultural awareness, the foundation welcomes grant applications annually from agencies serving the region. Interested applicants must consult the foundation prior to submission. Established in 1954, the foundation reflects the philanthropic legacy of Frederick Stanley Upton, emphasizing dedication, hard work, and a commitment to giving back.
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John O. Hendricks Memorial Scholarship

Milton-Freewater Area Foundation
Private
Umatilla County, Oregon
Unspecified amount
The John O. Hendricks Memorial Scholarship supports students from the Milton-Freewater, Oregon area, prioritizing financial need. It is available for all four years of undergraduate study, with applications required annually. Eligible students must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 in high school and 2.0 while in college. Funding varies, and grants are payable after the completion of the first quarter or semester, ensuring ongoing academic commitment.
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ATI Sponsorship & Donation Requests

ATI Physical Therapy
Corporate
Aiken County, South Carolina, Allegan County, Michigan +164 more
Unspecified amount
ATI Physical Therapy is dedicated to enhancing community health and wellness through its sponsorship and donation initiatives. With a mission to exceed customer expectations, ATI actively engages in philanthropic efforts that improve lives and promote quality care beyond clinic walls. They encourage requests for support while emphasizing a review process that ensures timely responses. Partnering with local organizations, ATI aims to elevate awareness of health and wellness, impacting thousands of lives each year.
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GMF: Nonprofit Management Fund Grant

Greater Milwaukee Foundation Inc
Private
Milwaukee County, Wisconsin, Ozaukee County, Wisconsin +2 more
US $1,000 - US $10,000
The GMF Nonprofit Management Fund Grant supports capacity-building initiatives for small to medium-sized nonprofits in Milwaukee and surrounding counties. Grants of $1,000 to $10,000 aim to enhance governance, management, and organizational effectiveness. Eligible organizations must have been established for at least two years and demonstrate a commitment to community service. The fund prioritizes projects that strengthen board leadership, financial management, and strategic planning, helping nonprofits achieve their missions more effectively.
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Nonprofit Sustainability Initiative Grant - Sustained Collaboration Fund Implementation Grant

Southern California Grantmakers
Private
Los Angeles County, California
US $20,000 - US $50,000
The Nonprofit Sustainability Initiative Grant supports nonprofits in Los Angeles County through its Sustained Collaboration Fund, which encourages strategic partnerships. These partnerships can enhance organizational effectiveness and efficiency, ultimately leading to greater mission sustainability. Implementation Grants, ranging from $20,000 to $50,000, are available for organizations that have agreed on collaborative efforts, covering costs such as severance, IT integration, and legal fees. This initiative aims to normalize strategic restructuring within the nonprofit sector.
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ICF: Affiliate Training Grants

Iowa Council of Foundations
Private
Iowa
Up to US $2,500
The Iowa Council of Foundations (ICoF) offers Affiliate Training Grants to support community foundations in Iowa. These grants, up to $2,500 annually, aim to enhance the education and training of volunteer and staff affiliates. With over 130 community foundations, ICoF strengthens philanthropy across the state, ensuring effective governance and outreach. The initiative reflects ICoF's commitment to empowering local foundations and fostering a robust philanthropic network in Iowa.
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Russell L. Hiller Charitable Trust Grant

Berks County Community Foundation
Private
Berks County, Pennsylvania
US $5,000
The Russell L. Hiller Charitable Trust Grant, managed by the Berks County Community Foundation, provides five scholarships of $5,000 each to graduating seniors of Governor Mifflin High School. Established in 2003 in memory of Judge Russell L. Hiller, this fund not only supports educational advancement for deserving students but also offers grants for local community programs. Applications are accepted from January 1 to March 1 for scholarships, with additional grant opportunities available throughout the year.
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JLH: Emergency + Contingency Grants

The Junior League Of Houston Inc
Private
Brazoria County, Texas, Fort Bend County, Texas +2 more
Unspecified amount
The JLH Emergency + Contingency Grants provide financial support to tax-exempt organizations addressing urgent needs in Brazoria, Fort Bend, Harris, and Waller counties. Eligible applicants must hold a 501(c)(3) status and demonstrate a commitment to addressing critical human needs or preventing service disruptions. This funding opportunity is designed for agencies that have not received a Community Assistance grant this year, ensuring support reaches those most in need.
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Saab Family Foundation Scholarship

The Saab Family Foundation
Private
Essex County, Massachusetts, Hillsborough County, New Hampshire +2 more
Unspecified amount
The Saab Family Foundation Scholarship offers financial assistance to students from Rockingham and Hillsborough Counties in NH, and Essex and Middlesex Counties in MA. Established in 2010, the Foundation aims to support academic achievement in private high schools and undergraduate programs. Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit and financial need, covering tuition, fees, room, board, and books. Eligible recipients must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75 and demonstrate a commitment to their education.
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Founders’ Award

SAX LLP
Corporate
United States
Up to US $20,000
The Founders’ Award by SAX LLP honors nonprofit organizations demonstrating perseverance in their mission. With a rich history since 1956, SAX aims to empower nonprofits through a $20,000 unrestricted gift for the first place, alongside additional support for second and third places. Eligible applicants must hold a 501(c)(3) tax exemption and attend the awards ceremony if selected among the Top 75. This initiative reflects SAX's commitment to advancing impactful nonprofits in their communities.
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River Cats Ticket Donation

Sacramento River Cats
Corporate
Sacramento County, California
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Sacramento River Cats provide an opportunity for non-profit organizations to request ticket donations for fundraising events. Eligible organizations must be local, 501(c)(3) certified, and submit requests at least six weeks prior to their event. Each organization is limited to one donation per calendar year, ensuring fair support for various causes. This initiative reflects the River Cats' commitment to community engagement and assistance in achieving fundraising goals.
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Perc H. Shelton and Gladys A. Pospisil Shelton Foundation Advised Fund Grant

Idaho Community Foundation (ICF)
Private
Valley County, Idaho
US $1,000 - US $5,000
The Perc H. Shelton and Gladys A. Pospisil Shelton Foundation Advised Fund, part of the Idaho Community Foundation, supports charitable initiatives in Valley County. Established by McCall residents, it prioritizes organizations with 501(c)(3) status, public educational institutions, and government entities. Grant applications are accepted annually until September 1, with decisions made each October. This fund reflects a commitment to enhancing the quality of life in Idaho through responsive and inclusive philanthropy.
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Naomi June Nishida Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Naomi June Nishida Scholarship Fund, established in 2016 by the Nishida family, supports students from Hawaii who demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. This scholarship aims to honor Naomi June Nishida's legacy while empowering local students to pursue their educational goals. The application process includes a pre-proposal deadline, ensuring applicants have ample time to prepare and submit their materials for consideration.
All fields of work

Ruby Worner Trust Grant

Ruby K. Worner Charitable Trust
Private
Peoria County, Illinois
Unspecified amount
The Ruby Worner Trust Grant supports initiatives in Peoria, IL, focusing on year-round programming and direct services that meet community needs. Applicants must demonstrate measurable outcomes and long-term sustainability, ensuring effective financial accountability. Collaboration with other organizations is encouraged, and projects should not duplicate existing efforts. Organizations applying must have at least three years of operational history and demonstrate prior impact before applying. This grant aims to benefit underserved populations and address demonstrated community demands.
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Dr. Louis and Anne B. Schneider Foundation Grant

Dr. Louis and Anne B. Schneider Foundation
Private
Allen County, Indiana
Unspecified amount
The Dr. Louis and Anne B. Schneider Foundation Grant focuses on supporting impactful projects in the Fort Wayne/Allen County area. This grant aims to fund initiatives that provide direct services, address community needs, and benefit underserved populations. Eligible organizations must demonstrate sustainability, collaboration, and measurable outcomes, with at least one year of operational history. The foundation prioritizes projects that complement existing non-profit efforts and have diversified income streams, ensuring effective financial accountability.
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CFG Capacity Building Grants

Community Foundation of Greenville
Private
Greenville County, South Carolina
US $5,000 - US $12,500
The CFG Capacity Building Grants support established 501(c)(3) organizations in Greenville County, SC, aiming to enhance their operational capabilities and governance. Funding opportunities include projects for client engagement, management innovation, collaborative ventures, technology improvements, and revenue diversification. Examples of capacity building encompass financial planning, organizational assessments, strategic planning, and leadership development. Grants are awarded competitively, allowing one application per agency per year, excluding individuals and certain ineligible expenses.
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Semmes Foundation Grant

Semmes Foundation
Private
Bexar County, Texas, Comal County, Texas +1 more
Unspecified amount
The Semmes Foundation, established in 1952 in San Antonio, supports charitable, scientific, and educational initiatives. The foundation invites unsolicited proposals that align with its funding priorities, requiring a concise written proposal and an IRS determination letter. Notably, there are no fixed application deadlines, with reviews conducted periodically, and applicants can expect a response within six months. It is essential to note that grants are not available for individuals, and detailed proposals are discouraged.
All fields of work

Roothbert Fund Scholarship

The Roothbert Fund
Private
United States
US $5,000 - US $7,000
The Roothbert Fund Scholarship, established by Albert and Toni Roothbert, provides financial assistance to individuals pursuing education in the U.S., emphasizing candidates motivated by spiritual values. Since its inception in 1958, the fund has supported over 1,350 fellows, fostering a community with annual retreats and online connections. Open to all regardless of background, the scholarship prioritizes graduate students and those with a year of college completed, ensuring a lasting impact on the lives of young idealists.
All fields of work

McCallsburg, Iowa Legacy Grant

Story County Community Foundation
Corporate
Story County, Iowa
Unspecified amount

Story County Community Foundation

The Story County Community Foundation does more than simply distributing grants that advance charitable activities. It also identifies current and emerging issues, stimulates resources to address those needs and helps Story County prepare for the future.

The Story County Community Foundation has two primary functions:

  • To receive, manage and distribute funds made available by the Iowa County Endowment Fund legislation for the benefit of Story County communities and organizations.
  • To provide a means for donors to make gifts that address the challenges and issues confronting Story County communities and organizations now and in the future.

Currently, the foundation holds more than 180 different funds established by individuals, families, and nonprofit agencies to benefit Story County, Iowa. Since its founding in 2005, the foundation has served the needs of this area and the wishes of our donors through personalized service, financial stewardship, local expertise, and community leadership.

McCallsburg, Iowa Legacy Grant

The City of McCallsburg will be the Fiscal Sponsor for this grant. Funds will be directed to the City of McCallsburg and the City will distribute the funds to the grant recipient.

Grant Information

  • Grants funding may be awarded up to, but not exceed, the McCallsburg Legacy Fund spendable balance. Please contact the Story County Community Foundation for up-to-date funding available.
  • The McCallsburg City Council will consider all applications during next regular City Council meeting.
  • Grant funding must be used within a year of the award.
  • A Final Report is required upon completion of the project.

All fields of work

Community Action Grant (Type 2)

Black Hills Area Community Foundation
Private
Butte County, South Dakota, Custer County, South Dakota +5 more
US $20,000
The Community Action Grant by the Black Hills Area Community Foundation offers two funding opportunities: $50,000 and $20,000. The $20,000 grant is specifically aimed at nonprofit endowment holders in the Black Hills area, encouraging creative and sustainable community projects. Applications for the $20,000 grant open on June 1, and the selection process is conducted by the BHACF Grants Committee after the deadline. This initiative aims to empower organizations that foster collaboration and positive change in the region.
All fields of work

Community Action Grant (Type 1)

Black Hills Area Community Foundation
Private
Butte County, South Dakota, Custer County, South Dakota +5 more
Up to US $50,000

Black Hills Area Community Foundation

We collaborate with our community to strengthen the Black Hills region for everyone.

Our mission is to lead solutions, give with purpose, and thrive together.

We invest in nonprofits, help donors enjoy giving, and manage initiatives to address key issues. We’re the only Community Foundation solely focused on serving the Black Hills area, spanning Butte, Meade, Lawrence, Pennington, Custer, Oglala Lakota, and Fall River counties.

As of 2026, Black Hills Area Community Foundation manages $100 million in assets and has invested more than $45 million in grants and scholarships since its establishment in 2006.

Community Action Grant

The Community Action Grant is offered to nonprofit endowment holders that employ creative ideas, leverage community partnerships and focus on sustainable practices.

There are two types: Community Action Grant ($50,000); and Community Action Grant ($20,000)

Community Action Grant ($50,000)

The Community Action Grant is available to nonprofits holding an agency endowment fund at the Black Hills Area Community Foundation. This grant will be awarded to an organization employing creative ideas, leveraging community partnerships, and focusing on sustainable practices.  

All fields of work

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.