Upcoming Webinar
How Funders Feel About AI, and What Keeps Them Saying Yes.
Wed, Oct 14 @ 2PM ET

Skip to main content
Main content

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

Skip the search. Get matched with grants that fit your non-profit.

Skip the search.

Get matched with grants that actually fit.

Smart recommendations based on your profile — in minutes.

Find me grants

Filters

32,499 Results based on applied filters

Sandia Corporate Contributions Program

Sandia National Laboratories
State/Local Government
Alameda County, California, Bernalillo County, New Mexico +5 more
US $5,000 - US $20,000
The Sandia Corporate Contributions Program, managed by Sandia National Laboratories, has a long-standing commitment to community support, contributing over $1 million annually to non-profits. This initiative focuses on enhancing Educational Success and Family Stability in local communities, reflecting Sandia's dedication to inspiring future generations. With a proud history of service, the program aims to empower organizations that make a tangible difference in people's lives.
Food Access & Hunger Homelessness Services Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness +3 more

Healthy Aging Fund

Toledo Community Foundation
Private
Allen County, Ohio, Defiance County, Ohio +14 more
More than US $50,000

Greater Toledo Community Foundation

Greater Toledo Community Foundation transforms generosity into lasting impact. With over $510 million in assets across 1,000+ funds, we've granted more than $370 million to strengthen education, health, arts, and social services throughout our region.

We connect donors with causes they care about while bringing together leaders, organizations, and resources to tackle our community's biggest challenges. What began with Walter E. Terhune's vision in the 1920s continues today as we help individuals, families, and businesses create positive change that will benefit our region for generations.

Healthy Aging Fund

The Community Foundation is funding programs that help older adults (60+) stay healthy, connected and independent.

This initiative follows the Ohio Department of Aging's State Plan, shaped with input from the Area Office on Aging of Northwestern Ohio. Priorities of the plan include cognitive health, chronic disease reduction, mental health, social inclusion, and nutrition access, plus engagement opportunities, physical activity, and preventive screenings. The plan is built on research and input from content-area experts.

The Foundation’s Focus

The Healthy Aging Fund is seeking proposals aligned with the State Plan and the Community Foundation's place-based priorities: programs that promote physical and mental health, reduce social isolation and strengthen community connections for older adults.

The Community Foundation seeks to identify collaborative approaches that work well enough to scale. This is a chance for northwest Ohio providers to test new approaches and collaborations: the kind with real potential to increase impact for participants and move the needle on broader community goals.

Funding Priorities

  • Multiple partners with complementary expertise, prioritizing diversity of resources across agencies
  • Programs delivered through or including senior centers, community centers or long-term care facilities
  • Diverse programming that reaches more participants
  • Accommodations for specific needs — memory care, vision loss, etc.
  • An educational component

The Community Foundation is seeking cross-agency partnerships that expand access to diverse programming and have real potential to scale. Available for projects up to two years. See more in the Grant Guidelines. 

Senior Services Social Isolation Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases +3 more

AAAP Foundation: Poultry Scholarship

American Association of Avian Pathologists
Association/Society
North America
Up to US $3,500
The AAAP Foundation: Poultry Scholarship supports students pursuing careers in poultry health and food safety in North America. Offered by the American Association of Avian Pathologists, the scholarship aims to enhance scientific knowledge and promote the well-being of poultry. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in accredited veterinary colleges or universities with relevant programs. Scholarships may reach up to $1,500, with undergraduate awards capped at $500, fostering the next generation of poultry medicine professionals.
Veterinary Science & Services Food Safety Ornithology

Provide Substance Use Prevention Program Services to Serve American Indian Populations RFP

Minnesota Department of Human Services Behavioral Health Administration
State/Local Government
Minnesota
Up to US $180,000

Provide Substance Use Prevention Program Services to Serve American Indian Populations RFP

DHS is seeking to provide Substance Use Prevention Program Services to Serve American Indian Populations

DHS, through its Behavioral Health Administration (STATE), is seeking Proposals from qualified Responders to provide substance use prevention program services to serve American Indian (AI) populations.

The term of any resulting contract is anticipated to be for four and a half years, from January 1, 2027 until September 30, 2031.

Total Funds Available: $1,620,000

  • Maximum Amount: $180,000 per year or $900,000 total per contract 
  • In-kind or matching funds are optional
  • Total Number of Grantees Anticipated: 9
Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Drug Use Disorder Native American Services

March Family Foundation Grants

March Family Foundation
Private
Anoka County, Minnesota, Carver County, Minnesota +5 more
Unspecified amount
The March Family Foundation provides grants to organizations that support children and youth, enhance theological education, and promote justice. They focus on measurable outcomes and effective action plans. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) charities and faith-based groups, primarily in the Twin Cities metro area. The foundation aims to address issues like poverty, abuse, and spiritual development, with a commitment to human rights, including food and shelter access.
Religious / Theological Education Basic Human Needs Diseases & Conditions +5 more

Impact100 Milwaukee

Impact 100 Greater Milwaukee Inc
Private
Milwaukee County, Wisconsin, Ozaukee County, Wisconsin +2 more
US $100,000
Impact100 Greater Milwaukee is a women's organization dedicated to awarding transformative grants that significantly enhance the community. It encourages nonprofits to innovate and address pressing needs in the Greater Milwaukee area by presenting creative proposals. Grants focus on various areas, including arts, education, health, and environmental revitalization. Eligible organizations must meet specific criteria, including being a recognized 501(c)(3) and demonstrating measurable outcomes. This initiative aims to drive impactful change and foster collaboration among nonprofits.
Art & Culture Education Animal Welfare - General +7 more

Pebble Beach Company Foundation Grants

Pebble Beach Company Foundation
Private
Monterey County, California
Unspecified amount
The PBC Grants, funded by the Pebble Beach Company Foundation, aim to enhance educational opportunities for Monterey County youth. Supporting various non-profits, these grants focus on early childhood readiness, literacy, arts, and youth development. By providing scholarships and financial aid, the Foundation ensures that students from pre-kindergarten to post-graduate levels have access to resources that enrich their educational journey, fostering a brighter future for the community.
Education - Preschool / Early Learning Literacy Youth Development & Leadership +5 more

Trinity Second Century Foundation Grant

Trinity Second Century Foundation
Private
Denver County, Colorado
Approximately US $10,000
The Trinity Second Century Foundation Grant aims to support underserved communities in Denver. With a history of awarding $70,000 in grants to local nonprofits, the foundation focuses on addressing critical needs such as housing, homelessness, and food security. This year's funding will empower organizations dedicated to these vital community services, ensuring a lasting impact on the lives of those in need.
Equitable & Affordable Housing Homelessness Services Real Estate & Housing +1 more

Laffey-McHugh Foundation Grant

Laffey Mchugh Foundation
Private
Delaware
US $25,000 - US $35,000
The Laffey-McHugh Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations focused on underserved communities in Delaware. Established by Alice Laffey McHugh in 1959, the foundation aims to enhance the quality of life through funding initiatives that address poverty, education, and community engagement. Grants typically range from $20,000 to $30,000 and are intended for projects with implementation timelines under 12 months. Organizations are encouraged to demonstrate sustainability and community impact in their proposals.
Economic Services & Development Poverty Alleviation & Services Community Development & Revitalization +9 more

Mosquito Control Grant Program (OH)

Ohio Environmental Protection Agency
State/Local Government
Ohio
Up to US $25,000
The Mosquito Control Grant Program in Ohio, administered by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, aims to combat mosquito-borne viruses like Zika and West Nile. This program offers funding to local governments for enhancing mosquito surveillance, reducing breeding habitats, and facilitating community education. It supports initiatives for larval and adult mosquito control, ensuring public health safety through effective management and outreach efforts.
Epidemiology & Public Health Infectious & Parasitic Diseases Malaria +1 more

The Spaulding Foundation Grant

Spaulding Foundation
Private
Boone County, Kentucky, Butler County, Ohio +6 more
Unspecified amount

The Spaulding Foundation

The Spaulding Foundation was established in 1998 by Ruth E. Spaulding, who was born in Northside and remained a lifelong resident of Greater Cincinnati. During her life, many people were touched by her benevolent and charitable giving. This private foundation is funded by her estate.

The Spaulding Foundation focuses its grant-making in the areas of mental health, physical and mental disabilities, substance abuse/chemical addiction, and domestic violence, rape and abuse. In addition, The Foundation has continued Mrs. Spaulding’s close relationship with The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden.

The Foundation welcomes opportunities to partner with organizations sharing our common goals. 

Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Domestic Violence +4 more

Impact100 Cincinnati

Impact 100 Inc
Private
Adams County, Ohio, Boone County, Kentucky +8 more
US $100,000
Impact100 Cincinnati empowers women to enhance lives in Greater Cincinnati by funding transformative grants focused on culture, education, environment, family, and health. They aim to address community needs with measurable goals, ensuring grants are utilized effectively over 1-3 years. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) charities and align projects with the mission of Impact100. The initiative fosters collaboration while prohibiting funding for operating costs, travel, and faith-based advancements.
Community Culture & Heritage Education Recreation +6 more

Hancock Whitney Opportunity Grant (Hancock Whitney Community Reinvestment Act Program)

Greater New Orleans Foundation
Private
Alabama, Florida +3 more
Up to US $25,000
The Hancock Whitney Opportunity Grant, in collaboration with the Greater New Orleans Foundation, invites applications from eligible nonprofits starting October 7, 2025. This grant aims to enhance capacity building and sustainability for organizations focused on food insecurity, workforce development, and youth programs. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations serving low to moderate-income communities within Hancock Whitney's service areas, fostering impactful changes with AmeriCorps support.
Equitable & Affordable Housing Business Development Apprenticeship & Internship Programs +1 more

Ciresi Walburn Foundation Annual Grants

Ciresi Walburn Foundation for Children
Private
Minnesota
Unspecified amount
The Ciresi Walburn Foundation supports innovative educational initiatives in Minnesota, focusing on eliminating inequities for children and youth. They partner with K-12 schools and nonprofits to enhance educational opportunities, emphasizing early learning, parent engagement, and diverse educator recruitment. The foundation prioritizes projects that foster equitable access to quality education while strategically investing in transformative ideas. However, past funding does not guarantee future support, and technology expenses are only considered if ancillary to broader proposals.
Educational Access & Equity Education System Policy & Reform Education - K through 12 +5 more

Scherman Foundation: Strengthening New York Communities

Scherman Foundation Inc.
Private
New York
Unspecified amount
The Scherman Foundation focuses on empowering Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities through economic, political, and cultural transformation. They prioritize organizations led by or accountable to these communities, fostering intersectional practices and movement-building efforts. Their funding aims to address systemic inequities in New York, particularly in housing, workers' rights, and cultural initiatives, promoting justice and community resilience. The Foundation's commitment to racial justice reflects in its strategic framework and grantmaking priorities.
Social Justice / Human Rights Equitable & Affordable Housing Economic Rights, Justice, & Mobility +5 more

Grants to Organizations Providing Emergency Assistance to Bostonians

City of Boston
State/Local Government
Suffolk County, Massachusetts
US $60,000 - US $80,000

Grants to Organizations Providing Emergency Assistance to Bostonians

Grant Description

The Trustees of Charitable Donations for Inhabitants of Boston (TOCD) is a public charitable trust. It is made up of small private funds that have been entrusted to the City of Boston to help residents facing financial hardship. 

The Trust Office works with partner organizations to efficiently distribute the TOCD funding and provide wraparound services and support to grantees. The TOCD Board is seeking qualified organizations for the regranting program. 

This application will determine which local non-profit charitable organizations are interested in and qualified to partner with TOCD and receive funds for emergency assistance grants to Bostonians for a one or three year period. These are not organizational grants; the majority of the funding should go directly to people in need, and will need to be closely tracked and reported on. Many of the funds making up TOCD have legal restrictions for both the purpose for which the funds are used and for characteristics of the recipients. 

Basic Human Needs Food Access & Hunger Food Delivery & Distribution Services +1 more

American Association of University Women / Wagy Fund

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Cass County, Missouri, Clay County, Missouri +4 more
US $1,000 - US $4,000
The American Association of University Women / Wagy Fund supports initiatives that empower women and girls in Kansas City, Missouri. By promoting education, economic opportunity, and personal safety, the fund seeks to foster societal change. It prioritizes partnerships with organizations that share its mission and focus on measurable improvements in self-image and lifelong education. Eligible applicants must be public charities dedicated to benefiting women and girls in the region.
Women & Girl Services Women's Health Women's Rights & Equality +4 more

Total Wireless + Empower Work: Working Students Pilot Grant

Empower Work
Private
Cook County, Illinois, Dallas County, Texas +4 more
US $50,000 - US $150,000
The Total Wireless + Empower Work: Working Students Pilot Grant aims to support working students in Dallas, Detroit, and Chicago through grants ranging from $50,000 to $150,000. Nonprofits will be selected to fund programs that provide job training, skill development, and host events to assist these students. This initiative encourages partnerships with organizations committed to fostering equitable workplaces and enhancing the educational journeys of working students.
Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Adult Education Career / College Preparation +3 more

Community Partnership Grants: Jazz & Heritage Media – Documentation + Creation

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation
Private
Louisiana
Up to US $7,500
The Community Partnership Grants by the Jazz & Heritage Foundation aim to support music and art education programs, cultural events, and artistic projects that reflect Louisiana's rich culture. With grants up to $5,000, the foundation prioritizes Louisiana-based applicants, fostering community engagement and cultural preservation. Since 1979, over $13.5 million has been awarded, helping schools and nonprofits thrive. This initiative encourages both documentation and creation of artworks that celebrate the unique heritage of Louisiana.
Documentaries Performing Arts Visual Arts +3 more

NBO Foundation - Education Committee Grants

Nicholas B. Ottaway Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Nicholas B. Ottaway Foundation offers grants through its Education Committee to support programs enhancing educational opportunities for economically disadvantaged students. These grants focus on initiatives like tutoring, college preparation, and internship programs. To qualify, organizations must be tax-exempt under 501(c)(3). Preference is given to projects that provide ongoing support to students post-graduation, particularly in specific geographic areas such as San Diego County and the New York Metropolitan Area.
After School / Summer Educational Programs Tutoring & Mentoring Standardized Testing Services +2 more

Youth Philanthropy Board Grant- New Castle County

Delaware Community Foundation
Private
New Castle County, Delaware
Unspecified amount
The Youth Philanthropy Board Grant in New Castle County aims to provide crucial support to nonprofits focusing on mental health initiatives for vulnerable populations, including those facing food insecurity, substance abuse, or suicide risks. Targeted groups include LGBTQIA youth, teenage parents, and youth in foster care. Through this initiative, the grant seeks to foster community resilience and enhance the well-being of at-risk individuals in the area.
Youth Services Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Equitable & Affordable Housing +1 more

GRDA: Event Sponsorship

Grand River Dam Authority
State/Local Government
Adair County, Oklahoma, Cherokee County, Oklahoma +22 more
Unspecified amount
The Grand River Dam Authority (GRDA) is dedicated to enhancing community development through its Event Sponsorship program. This initiative fosters collaboration among various organizations, including economic development and tourism groups, to drive positive change within local communities. GRDA actively supports projects that align with its commitment to environmental sustainability and educational outreach, ensuring that community needs are met while promoting a vibrant and engaged public. Applications should be submitted at least 45 days before the event.
Community Development & Revitalization Economic Services & Development Recreation +4 more

Time-Sensitive Evaluation of Policies Affecting Health Behaviors and Chronic Disease Risk (R01-Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Unspecified amount
This funding opportunity aims to support urgent research evaluating policies that impact health behaviors related to obesity. It is designed for studies that can only be performed with expedited review due to the time-sensitive nature of the research. Applications must demonstrate a compelling need for immediate funding to explore new policies or programs affecting dietary habits and physical activity, with the expectation that successful proposals will receive funding within four months.
Obesity Health Policy & Advocacy Nutrition & Healthy Eating +2 more

Validating Reverse Osmosis Conductivity Profiling for Pathogen Log Reduction Value Credit RFP

Water Research Foundation
Private
Up to US $500,000

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5432 - Validating Reverse Osmosis Conductivity Profiling for Pathogen Log Reduction Value Credit

Grant Information

  • Validate conductivity profiling against pathogen removal by establishing the relationship between conductivity-profile response and MS2 bacteriophage removal under intact and controlled membrane integrity-defect conditions.
  • Demonstrate the robustness and applicability of conductivity profiling across representative reverse osmosis conditions, including new and aged membranes, different defect types and severities, operating conditions, variations in feedwater quality/composition/salinity, and temperature.
  • Develop a validation implementation framework that defines testing procedures, log removal value calculation methods, sensitivity and performance criteria, continuous monitoring, alarm/response thresholds, and operational requirements needed to support regulatory pathogen log removal values credit for reverse osmosis.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Hydrology

SECURE Assessment Grant

New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation
State/Local Government
New York
Up to US $50,000

New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation

The mission of the Environmental Facilities Corporation is to assist communities throughout New York State to undertake critical water quality infrastructure projects by providing access to low-cost capital, grants and expert technical assistance. A primary goal is to ensure that these projects remain affordable while safeguarding essential water resources. We support this mission by consistently using an innovative approach to developing and advancing new financing strategies to maximize the funding that can be made available to our clients, aiding compliance with Federal and State requirements, and promoting green infrastructure practices.

EFC has broad knowledge and a breadth of experience as a national leader in the municipal bond market. Our distinction gives our partners significant advantages in funding projects: Low cost of capital through grants, low interest rates and reduced bonding costs; Multiple funding options to fit your needs through project planning to construction and completion; Expert support to guide you through the application process and help you comply with state and federal requirements. We ensure the participation of minority-, women-, and service-disabled, veteran-owned businesses through every stage of the construction process. We also partner with a wide variety of professional organizations

Strengthening Essential Cybersecurity for Utilities and Resiliency Enhancement (SECURE) Assessment Grant

EFC is offering $2.5 million dollars to strengthen cybersecurity readiness and resilience and support operational continuity for eligible water and wastewater systems across New York State. The SECURE program will provide funding for projects that enhance cyber protections, modernize digital infrastructure and reduce vulnerabilities for critical drinking water and wastewater systems. This strategic initiative expands upon Governor Hochul’s commitment to safeguard essential services, improve risk management practices, and support communities meeting evolving cybersecurity expectations. Funding is available for both cybersecurity assessments and implementation based on best practices and regulatory requirements. 

The SECURE Assessment grant will assist eligible clean water and drinking water systems to evaluate their cybersecurity posture, identify vulnerabilities, and prioritize risk mitigation needs. A municipality may apply for up to $50,000 with a 0% match.   

Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Cybersecurity

SECURE Implementation Grant

New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation
State/Local Government
New York
Up to US $100,000

New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation

The mission of the Environmental Facilities Corporation is to assist communities throughout New York State to undertake critical water quality infrastructure projects by providing access to low-cost capital, grants and expert technical assistance. A primary goal is to ensure that these projects remain affordable while safeguarding essential water resources. We support this mission by consistently using an innovative approach to developing and advancing new financing strategies to maximize the funding that can be made available to our clients, aiding compliance with Federal and State requirements, and promoting green infrastructure practices.

EFC has broad knowledge and a breadth of experience as a national leader in the municipal bond market. Our distinction gives our partners significant advantages in funding projects: Low cost of capital through grants, low interest rates and reduced bonding costs; Multiple funding options to fit your needs through project planning to construction and completion; Expert support to guide you through the application process and help you comply with state and federal requirements. We ensure the participation of minority-, women-, and service-disabled, veteran-owned businesses through every stage of the construction process. We also partner with a wide variety of professional organizations

Strengthening Essential Cybersecurity for Utilities and Resiliency Enhancement (SECURE) Implementation Grant

EFC is offering $2.5 million dollars to strengthen cybersecurity readiness and resilience and support operational continuity for eligible water and wastewater systems across New York State. The SECURE program will provide funding for projects that enhance cyber protections, modernize digital infrastructure and reduce vulnerabilities for critical drinking water and wastewater systems. This strategic initiative expands upon Governor Hochul’s commitment to safeguard essential services, improve risk management practices, and support communities meeting evolving cybersecurity expectations. Funding is available for both cybersecurity assessments and implementation based on best practices and regulatory requirements. 

The SECURE Implementation Grant will fund deployment and enhancement of cybersecurity controls, technologies, and response capabilities identified during the assessment phase. The funded activities will be in response to a submitted cybersecurity assessment of the system. Completion of a prior assessment using a SECURE Assessment Grant is not required to apply; however a comparable assessment of the system’s cybersecurity needs must have been completed prior to applying for a SECURE Implementation Grant. A municipality may apply for up to 20% of net eligible costs, up to $100,000. 

Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Cybersecurity

Tee It Up for the Troops Grant

Tee It Up For The Troops Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
Tee It Up for the Troops Grant supports 501(c)3 organizations that aid military personnel and their families. Prioritizing employment, family support, housing, PTSD treatment, sports rehabilitation, and suicide prevention, the grant aims to enhance the lives of veterans. Organizations that do not engage in fundraising events are eligible for funding. This initiative seeks to create a positive impact within the military community through various support pillars.
Military & Veterans Services Suicide Prevention Brain Injuries +1 more

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.