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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

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.
All fields of work

Nonprofit Growth & Sustainability Grants: General Operating Grants

Evanston Community Foundation
Private
Cook County, Illinois
Up to US $25,000
The Evanston Community Foundation offers Nonprofit Growth & Sustainability Grants to support general operating costs for nonprofits in Evanston. These unrestricted funds are available to organizations committed to racial equity, have been operational for at least three years, and have a strategic plan in place. Grants can be up to $25,000, covering no more than 15% of the organization's budget, fostering a thriving nonprofit sector dedicated to community impact.
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Operation Round Up Grant

GreyStone Power Foundation, Inc.
Corporate
Bartow County, Georgia, Carroll County, Georgia +6 more
Up to US $8,000
The Operation Round Up Grant, offered by the GreyStone Power Foundation, Inc., supports nonprofit organizations in several counties, including Bartow, Carroll, and Cobb. Members of GreyStone voluntarily round up their electric bills to fund this initiative, providing essential monetary assistance to local nonprofits. This program aims to strengthen community support and address various needs through collective contributions, fostering a spirit of collaboration and charity among residents.
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Bighorn Cares Grant

Bighorn Golf Club Charities
Private
Riverside County, California
Unspecified amount
The Bighorn Cares Grant supports specific projects that improve organizations serving the Coachella Valley community. Proposals from 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations are encouraged, focusing on initiatives that directly benefit the community. General operation and personnel requests will not be considered. This grant aims to empower charitable efforts and enhance local impact through dedicated funding.
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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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Elizabeth Ann Leach Charitable Trust Grant

Elizabeth Ann Leach Charitable Trust
Private
Lincoln County, Maine
Unspecified amount
The Elizabeth Ann Leach Charitable Trust Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Lincoln County, Maine by providing support to charitable, educational, and benevolent organizations. Grants are awarded to tax-exempt entities operating within the county. Notably, applications from organizations that benefit private individuals, engage in political activities, or promote legislation are ineligible. This trust is dedicated to fostering community well-being and development through strategic funding.
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Non-Profit Grant Program

Sussex County
State/Local Government
Sussex County, Delaware
Unspecified amount
The Non-Profit Grant Program, funded by Sussex County, allocates $175,000 annually to support non-profit organizations that benefit local residents. Eligible organizations must ensure transparency of their financial records. Applications are highly competitive, receiving over 100 submissions yearly, so requests should be realistic and within budget constraints. Programs advancing religious activities are not eligible for funding. This initiative aims to enhance community services through responsible financial support.
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Atlanta United FC Donation Requests

Atlanta United FC
Corporate
Georgia (US state)
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
Atlanta United FC is dedicated to supporting local community initiatives in Georgia through its donation program. Organizations can request Atlanta United items for charitable fundraising activities, but only online submissions are accepted. Priority is given to youth-focused initiatives, such as youth soccer and special Olympics. Requests must be made six weeks prior to the event date, and fulfillment is limited to one request per organization each calendar year.
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Highlands Community Fund Grant

The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina
Private
Macon County, North Carolina
US $2,500 - US $10,000
The Highlands Community Fund Grant, provided by The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, offers grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 to qualified 501(c)(3), governmental, educational, and religious organizations in the Highlands area. Priority is given to requests demonstrating significant community benefit. Organizations may only submit one application per year and must meet specific eligibility criteria. Grant funds should be utilized within 10 months of receipt.
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Potawatomi Hotel & Casino: Playing Card Requests & Auction Item Requests

Potawatomi Hotel & Casino
Corporate
Adams County, Wisconsin, Allegan County, Michigan +71 more
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
Potawatomi Hotel & Casino is committed to community support through philanthropy, providing jobs and financial assistance. Their Heart of Canal Street program has donated over $13.6 million since 1994, helping local children. They recycle used playing cards for nonprofit organizations and donate auction items for fundraising events within a 125-mile radius. However, they do not support K-12 schools or for-profit entities, ensuring their contributions are directed to those in need.
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Better Together Fund Grants

Dallas Foundation A Tx Nonprofit Corporation
Private
Archer County, Texas, Baylor County, Texas +28 more
US $15,000 - US $65,000
The Better Together Fund Grants aim to foster social change by supporting collaborations among nonprofits, focusing on formal partnerships that enhance efficiency and impact. Since 2017, 102 grants totaling over $6 million have been awarded to 64 collaborations involving more than 250 organizations. The fund encourages diverse partnerships, including mergers and shared services, to tackle community challenges. Eligible applicants must be nonprofits serving North Texas, demonstrating a commitment to collaborative efforts for lasting change.
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Muessel-Ellison Memorial Trust Foundation Grant

The Muessel-Ellison Memorial Trust Foundation
Private
St. Joseph County, Indiana
US $5,000 - US $15,000
The Muessel-Ellison Memorial Trust Foundation, established in 1959 by Netta Muessel Ellison, aims to support charitable purposes benefiting South Bend and St. Joseph County, Indiana. The foundation focuses on areas such as arts, education, health, and human services. Organizations seeking funding must be 501(c)(3) exempt and operate within the specified geographic region. Through its efforts, the foundation honors the legacy of the Muessel and Ellison families, promoting community well-being and civic engagement.
All fields of work

Mascoma Bank - Donations and Sponsorships Requests

Mascoma Bank Foundation
Corporate
Caledonia County, Vermont, Cheshire County, New Hampshire +10 more
Up to US $5,000
Mascoma Bank Foundation provides funding for local non-profits and community organizations through its Donation and Sponsorship Committees. Each year, over $1 million is donated to strengthen community initiatives. Organizations serving local needs are eligible, with a maximum grant of $5,000 per year. The Foundation prioritizes immediate community needs and does not typically fund national organizations, political groups, or religious entities. Their commitment to philanthropy is deeply rooted in the communities they serve.
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Organizational Development (OD) Grants

Community Foundation for Monterey County
Private
Monterey County, California
US $5,000 - US $10,000
The Community Foundation for Monterey County offers Organizational Development (OD) Grants to enhance the capacity of nonprofits in the region. These grants support strategic projects that address unique management challenges and improve internal operations. Eligible organizations include 501(c)3 nonprofits and fiscally-sponsored groups. Recent projects have demonstrated significant impacts, such as improved volunteer engagement and successful leadership transitions, highlighting the foundation's commitment to fostering healthy, vibrant communities in Monterey County.
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Impact 100 NYC: Innovation Grant

Impact 100 NYC
Private
Bronx County, New York, Kings County, New York +3 more
US $100,000
Impact 100 NYC is dedicated to transforming communities through collective giving, providing $100,000 grants annually to local nonprofits in New York City. By focusing on innovative projects that serve underserved populations, they aim to address unmet needs and promote social change. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities, operate within NYC, and meet specific budgetary requirements. The initiative not only empowers local nonprofits but also raises awareness of lesser-known impactful programs.
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CFCC: Capacity Grants for Small Non-profits

Collier Community Foundation
Private
Collier County, Florida
US $500 - US $5,000
The Collier Community Foundation offers Capacity Grants aimed at small nonprofits with budgets under $3M in Collier County, FL. These grants support organizations in enhancing their operational effectiveness through essential capacity-building activities, such as strategic planning, board development, and improving financial management. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt nonprofits that have been operational for at least one year. This funding cycle allows for one grant application per organization, focusing on their unique contributions to community needs.
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Community Foundation: Mini-grants

Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc.
Private
Chemung County, New York, Steuben County, New York
US $100 - US $1,500
The Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc. offers Mini-Grants ranging from $100 to $1,500 to support small-scale projects addressing urgent community needs. Applications must be submitted 30-90 days in advance and are prioritized based on emergent issues. Eligible applicants are 501(c)3 organizations serving Chemung and Southeastern Steuben counties. Funding is competitive and may be partial or denied based on available resources and community priorities.
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Community Foundation for the Alleghenies - Annual Spring and Fall Grants

Community Foundation for the Alleghenies
Private
Bedford County, Pennsylvania, Cambria County, Pennsylvania +2 more
Up to US $10,000
The Community Foundation for the Alleghenies offers Annual Spring and Fall Grants to support nonprofits in Bedford, Cambria, Somerset, and Indiana counties. Grants of up to $7,500 are available for projects that align with the Foundation's mission. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, governmental entities, and volunteer fire companies. The Foundation prioritizes scalable projects and those with specific components of larger initiatives, fostering philanthropic efforts across the region.
All fields of work

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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The Dietrich Foundation Greenville, Pa. Fund Grant

Pittsburgh Foundation
Private
Mercer County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Dietrich Foundation Greenville, Pa. Fund Grant, established by William S. Dietrich II, aims to support charitable initiatives through the Dietrich Charitable Trusts. This fund, created from assets of Dietrich Industries' sale in 1996, is managed by The Pittsburgh Foundation with oversight from advisory committees. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities, operational for at least two years, and demonstrate sound financial management. For further guidelines, visit the Pittsburgh Foundation's FAQs.
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ORLF: Direct Response Good Practice Grants

Ottumwa Regional Legacy Foundation Inc.
Private
Wapello County, Iowa
Up to US $5,000
The Ottumwa Regional Legacy Foundation offers Direct Response Good Practice Grants up to $5,000 for nonprofits to enhance their management and organizational capacity. These grants support various activities including strategic planning, financial management, communications, and board development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and serve Wapello County, demonstrating full board support for participation. Grants exclude for-profit entities, individuals, and those seeking funding for political purposes or debt reduction.
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Love Your Block Neighborhood Grants

Gila River Indian Community
State/Local Government
Arizona
Up to US $5,000
The Love Your Block Neighborhood Grants, offered by the Neighborhood Services Department, empower Neighborhood and Block Watch groups to enhance their communities. With grants up to $5,000, funded by the Gila River Indian Community and the Phoenix Public Works Department, these initiatives aim to foster partnerships and promote neighborhood revitalization. Applications are typically accepted in spring, and projects should be completed within 6-9 months, making this a valuable opportunity for community engagement and improvement.
All fields of work

Carroll Community Fund Grant

Stark Community Foundation
Private
Carroll County, Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Carroll Community Fund Grant, established in 1994, supports various projects in Carroll County, Ohio. It funds tax-exempt organizations, private agencies, and government entities that address local issues. Eligible applicants include religious institutions with primarily secular programs, private schools focusing on nonreligious educational activities, and arts or recreational projects demonstrating community support. The fund aims to enhance community impact while ensuring grants are awarded based on specific eligibility criteria and local needs.
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Rotary Club of Dunedin Grant

Dunedin Rotary Club Foundation
Private
Pinellas County, Florida
Unspecified amount
The Rotary Club of Dunedin, established in 1947, has significantly contributed to both local and global communities, donating over $300,000 in the last decade. The club focuses on providing grants to 501(c)(3) organizations that benefit Dunedin residents, particularly projects aiding children and youth. Funded by generous contributions from members and signature fundraisers, these grants are aimed at enhancing community welfare through impactful initiatives.
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Hultquist Foundation Grant

Chautauqua Region Community Foundation
Private
Chautauqua County, New York
US $5,000 - US $300,000
The Hultquist Foundation Grant offers funding between $5,000 and $300,000, with an average award of $45,000, aimed at supporting 501(c)(3) organizations in Southern Chautauqua County. The total annual funding available is approximately $800,000. Applicants must submit a written paper application, as online applications are not accepted. First-time applicants are required to provide a copy of their IRS determination letter confirming their 501(c)(3) status.
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Nicotra Foundation- Grants For Non-for-profit Organizations

The Lois & Richard Nicotra Foundation
Private
Richmond County, New York
US $750 - US $1,500
The Lois & Richard Nicotra Foundation has been supporting non-profit organizations in Staten Island since 2011, distributing over $829,765 to more than 392 recipients. The foundation primarily aids local non-profits and offers scholarships to the children and grandchildren of its employees. Grants typically range from $750 to $1,500, with variations based on specific needs. This initiative highlights the foundation's commitment to community development and educational support.
All fields of work

CCF: Strengthening Nonprofits Grants

Connecticut Community Foundation
Private
Litchfield County, Connecticut, New Haven County, Connecticut
US $5,000 - US $10,000

Strengthening Nonprofits

Nonprofits need certain organizational resiliencies to be able to meet their missions, including strong leadership, financial management, technology, fund development and communications. By providing funding to help organizations invest in these vital building blocks, the Foundation aims to help build efficiencies, improve program delivery and increase and sustain impact.Strengthening Nonprofits is becoming a staff-led committee in order to foster more open, candid conversations while providing ongoing, responsive support. By deepening these relationships, we aim to be more flexible and supportive in meeting the evolving needs of partners, grantees, and organizations, strengthening the nonprofit ecosystem in Greater Waterbury and the Litchfield Hills.

Our approach focuses on:

  • Funding key organizational development initiatives that lead to stronger, more adaptable organizations.
  • Empowering nonprofits to seek assistance that they deem to be the right fit for their organizational needs.
  • Centering organizations who are addressing disparities within our communities.
  • Prioritizing smaller organizations who meet the grant criteria.

Efforts we support include:

  • Professional development opportunities to help staff or board build on the assets they have and add new skillsets. The committee prioritizes training requests that are continuous and have been fully scoped in terms of topic and trainer.
  • Executive coaching or supervisory support with an expert in the field or professional consultant.
  • Organizational development projects focused on strategic planning, financial management systems, evaluation, fundraising, programming, or communications.
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.