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Best Private Grants for Nonprofits

Explore private grants for nonprofits funding programs in education, health, community development, and the arts.

33,000+

Available grants

$9.00B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

33,000+ grants
$9.00B total
$6K median

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32,618 Results based on applied filters

Athens Area Community Foundation Grant

Battle Creek Community Foundation
Private
Calhoun County, Michigan
Unspecified amount

Battle Creek Community Foundation

Our Mission: The Battle Creek Community Foundation connects people, ideas, and resources to expand opportunity and create lasting community benefit for today and tomorrow.

Athens Area Community Foundation

Established in 1994 in Athens, Michigan – For good. Forever. For all.

Mission: To build permanent endowment funds that enrich and enhance the quality of life and support services in the Athens area.

Grants

The Athens Area Community Foundation supports nonprofit organizations who impact the organizations and residents in the greater Athens area. Organizations that are recognized under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code or have a fiscal sponsor that is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and serve the greater Athens area residents, are eligible to apply for grants.

The following are the current areas of focus for AACF grants:

  • Arts & Culture
  • Community/Economic Development
  • Education
  • Environment
  • Health & Wellness
  • Human Services
  • Youth
Youth Services Human & Social Services Community Development & Revitalization +5 more

Metallinou Postdoctoral Travel Award

Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles (SSAR)
Association/Society
Ramsey County, Minnesota
Up to US $1,000
The Metallinou Postdoctoral Travel Award, offered by the Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles (SSAR), supports postdoctoral researchers globally to present their work at the Joint Meeting of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists (JMIH) in July 2025. Awards, up to $1000, help facilitate crucial networking opportunities at a pivotal stage in their careers. Applicants must be employed as postdoctoral fellows and present their research at the conference.
Herpetology

Harbor Point Charitable Foundation Grant

Harbor Point Charitable Foundation
Private
Alameda County, California, Contra Costa County, California +6 more
Unspecified amount
The Harbor Point Charitable Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for underserved adults and children in the Bay Area. With a focus on innovative organizations addressing health crises and supporting educational, arts, and nutritional programs, the Foundation has distributed over $4.6 million in grants. Their mission emphasizes community engagement and advocacy, ensuring that funds support nonprofit organizations exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, particularly those benefiting Marin County residents.
Senior Services Children’s Health & Pediatrics Health Care Access & Delivery +3 more

Encompass Health Therapy Grant

Encompass Health Corporation
Corporate
Puerto Rico, United States
Up to US $75,000
The Encompass Health Therapy Grant offers up to $50,000 for research on the effectiveness of therapies in inpatient rehabilitation facilities. This funding aims to enhance understanding of neurological impairments and improve patient outcomes through evidence-based practices. Eligible projects must be conducted in the U.S. or Puerto Rico, require a defined research protocol, and adhere to ethical standards. The grant prioritizes studies on therapy impact, implementation science, and caregiver education, contributing to the advancement of rehabilitation care.
Medical Rehabilitation Home Health Care Health Care Access & Delivery +3 more

Kleinhans Fellowship for Community Forestry Research

Rainforest Alliance
Private
Central America, South America
US $40,000
The Kleinhans Fellowship for Community Forestry Research, funded by the Rainforest Alliance, supports innovative research aimed at enhancing the sustainability and profitability of Community Forest Enterprises (CFEs) in Latin America. With a grant of $20,000 per year for two years, the fellowship prioritizes research on market access for lesser-known species, biodiversity management, social organization, and multi-community enterprises, ensuring collaborative and practical solutions to real-world challenges faced by local communities.
Forestry

State Property Friends Groups Grant Program

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
State/Local Government
Wisconsin
Up to US $20,000
The State Property Friends Groups Grant Program allocates $500,000 annually to support friends groups and nonprofit conservation organizations in enhancing state properties. Grants can fund up to 50% of a project's costs, with a maximum of $20,000 per property. Eligible projects focus on nature-based outdoor recreation and must meet specific requirements, ensuring long-lasting improvements. Applicants are encouraged to engage with the DNR early in their planning process to ensure compliance and project success.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Parks & Public Spaces Outdoor Recreation +1 more

Forever Friends Diana Lain Hughes Scholarship

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Johnson County, Kansas, Lyon County, Kansas +1 more
US $2,000

Forever Friends Diana Lain Hughes Scholarship

The primary purpose of the Forever Friend Diana Lain Hughes Scholarship Fund is to provide annual scholarships to one or more graduating high school seniors or former graduates of the Shawnee Mission School District who demonstrate an interest in a career in teaching, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy or speech-language pathology.

Award

  • $2,000
Nursing Physical Therapy Speech-Language Learning & Disorders +1 more

Connection, Assistance, Resources and Education Grant for Dementia Caregivers in DC (CARE DC)

District of Columbia Department of Health
State/Local Government
District of Columbia
US $70,000 - US $80,000
The Connection, Assistance, Resources and Education Grant for Dementia Caregivers in DC (CARE DC) aims to enhance the quality of life for dementia caregivers by establishing a coordinated network of resources. This initiative seeks to increase caregiver support and reduce the long-term health impacts associated with caregiving. By facilitating access to dementia navigation services, CARE DC promotes wellness and equity among caregivers in the District, addressing critical health risks and enhancing community collaboration.
Dementia & Alzheimer’s Disease Caregiver Support / Respite Care

Transportation Alternatives Program (TA)

Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana Regional Council of Governments
Private
Kentucky, Ohio
US $650,000 - US $1,000,000
The Transportation Alternatives Program (TA) funded by the Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana Regional Council of Governments supports projects that enhance transportation options in the OKI region. Eligible activities include both infrastructure and non-infrastructure projects as outlined in the Ohio Metropolitan Transportation Plan. This funding aims to promote safer and more accessible transportation alternatives, contributing to the overall improvement of community mobility and connectivity.
Public Transportation & Mass Transit Systems Pedestrian & Bike-Friendly Infrastructure

Charles and Joan Hermanowski Family Foundation Grant

Charles And Joan Hermanowski Family Foundation Inc
Private
United States
Up to US $10,000
The Charles and Joan Hermanowski Family Foundation aims to enhance the lives of children and young adults in the U.S. by providing financial support to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on arts, education, health, and welfare. Grants, capped at $10,000, must be utilized within one year and are not automatically renewable. The foundation seeks to support smaller charities that may not receive broad public backing, thus creating a more significant impact on individual communities.
Youth Development & Leadership Youth Involvement in the Arts Youth Services +3 more

Special Child Health Services, Family Centered Care Services, Case Management

State of New Jersey Department of Health
State/Local Government
New Jersey
Unspecified amount

New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH)

The New Jersey Department of Health leads the state’s response to public health challenges and works to improve health outcomes for all New Jersey residents. Through its three primary branches—Public Health Services, Health Systems, and Integrated Health—the Department collaborates across programs and partners to strengthen New Jersey’s health system. Guided by its mission to protect public health, promote healthy communities, and improve the quality of health care, the Department supports initiatives that advance prevention, system integration, and equitable access to health services statewide.

Special Child Health Services, Family Centered Care Services, Case Management

Provide partial support to current Special Child Health Services Case Management Units. Assure Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN) in New Jersey access to care coordination, medical home and parent support.

Disability Care & Services Children With Disabilities Special Needs Education +1 more

SSAR: Student Travel Award

Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles (SSAR)
Association/Society
Washtenaw County, Michigan
US $500
The Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles (SSAR) offers the Student Travel Award to support students attending the SSAR meeting. Ten awards of $500 each are available to eligible students who are SSAR members, first authors of presentations, and have not previously received the award. Applicants must submit a letter from their advisor and an abstract. Winners are randomly selected and must volunteer during the event.
Herpetology

Jean Longwith Scholarship for Radio-Television-Film

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
Texas
Unspecified amount
The Jean Longwith Scholarship for Radio-Television-Film, offered by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports students pursuing degrees in broadcasting, radio, television, and film. This scholarship is available to full-time students in Texas, including high school seniors and current college students. It is renewable for up to three years, provided recipients maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. Funding covers tuition, fees, books, and supplies, making it a valuable opportunity for aspiring media professionals.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs Film +2 more

IDNR: State Duck Stamp Funding

Illinois Department of Natural Resources
State/Local Government
Canada, United States
Up to US $500,000
The IDNR: State Duck Stamp Funding program supports the development of waterfowl propagation areas in the Mississippi Flyway. Funded by sales of State Migratory Waterfowl Stamps, it focuses on projects in Canada and the U.S. that enhance waterfowl populations. Eligible applicants include not-for-profit organizations aiming to implement the North American Waterfowl Management Plan. This initiative not only fosters wildlife conservation but also strengthens ecological sustainability in the region.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Land / Habitat Conservation Ornithological Conservation

SAF National Awards Program: Gifford Pinchot Medal

Society of American Foresters (SAF)
Association/Society
United States
More than US $500
The Gifford Pinchot Medal, awarded by the Society of American Foresters, honors exceptional contributions by forestry professionals in North America. Recognizing achievements in administration and practice, this medal is presented every odd-numbered year at the SAF national convention. Recipients receive a $500 honorarium, complimentary registration, and up to $500 for travel expenses. This prestigious award highlights the importance of leadership and innovation in the forestry profession.
Forestry

SAF National Awards Program: Honorary Membership

Society of American Foresters (SAF)
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount
The SAF National Awards Program recognizes exceptional contributions to forestry through its Honorary Membership award. This accolade is presented to individuals whose impact on the field is acknowledged by their peers, highlighting their distinguished service in advancing forestry knowledge and societal awareness. Awardees receive lifetime membership in SAF along with complimentary convention registration. The program seeks to honor those, including non-professional foresters, who have made significant strides in forestry, both domestically and internationally.
Forestry

Carl Gans Travelling Fellowship for Students and Post-Docs

Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles (SSAR)
Association/Society
Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, Washtenaw County, Michigan
US $800 - US $1,700
The Carl Gans Travelling Fellowship, established by the Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles (SSAR), supports graduate students and postdoctoral researchers attending herpetological meetings. In 2026, this fellowship will cover travel expenses for selected fellows, prioritizing those in greatest need and from underrepresented groups. Awards will be available for up to 24 recipients, with funding varying based on geographic location, aiming to enhance global participation in herpetology research.
Herpetology

Venison Donation Grant Program

Maryland Department of Natural Resources
State/Local Government
Maryland
Up to US $25,000
The Venison Donation Grant Program, administered by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, provides funding to organizations for butchering and processing donated deer, aiding those in need. With a maximum grant of $25,000, eligible grantees include county governments and 501(c)(3) organizations. Funds can cover up to $60 per deer processed, requiring quarterly reports detailing processing activities and distributions to recipient organizations. This initiative supports nutritional needs for vulnerable populations in Maryland.
Food Access & Hunger Food Delivery & Distribution Services Sport Shooting

North Sound Health Equity Scholarship

Chuckanut Health Foundation
Private
Island County, Washington, San Juan County, Washington +2 more
Unspecified amount
The North Sound Health Equity Scholarship, funded by the Chuckanut Health Foundation, aims to enhance diverse representation in healthcare by supporting students from Whatcom, Skagit, Island, and San Juan Counties. This scholarship not only alleviates financial burdens but also empowers those who have faced systemic barriers, fostering a community committed to health equity. Join us in investing in the future of healthcare and ensuring that everyone has access to excellent care.
Educational Access & Equity Minority Services Health Care Access & Delivery +4 more

The Joyce W. Vickery Research Fund Grant

The Linnean Society of New South Wales
Association/Society
Australia
Unspecified amount
The Joyce W. Vickery Research Fund Grant, offered by the Linnean Society of New South Wales, supports research in the Biological Sciences, particularly in natural history within Australia. Eligible applicants include postgraduate students and amateur or professional biologists demonstrating research achievement. Grants typically do not exceed $2,500 for members and $1,500 for non-members, and are intended for research-related expenses such as travel and equipment, rather than thesis preparation or conference attendance.
Phycology Mycology Zoology +2 more

NEBC Graduate Student Research Award

New England Botanical Society
Association/Society
Connecticut, Maine +4 more
Up to US $3,000
The NEBC Graduate Student Research Award offers up to $3,000 to support graduate students conducting botanical research on New England's flora, including plants, algae, and fungi. This award encourages projects involving field, lab, and herbarium work, as well as travel within the region. Open to all graduate students, it aims to foster significant contributions to systematic botany, plant ecology, genetics, and conservation biology.
Botanical Conservation Mycology Phycology +1 more

Van Beuren Foundation: Capacity Grants

Van Beuren Charitable Foundation Inc.
Private
Newport County, Rhode Island
Up to US $10,000
The Van Beuren Foundation offers Capacity Grants to nonprofit organizations and public institutions, focusing on initiatives that enhance community impact. These grants, capped at $10,000, aim to strengthen organizational capacities through board development, leadership coaching, and strategic planning. While centered on Aquidneck Island, proposals from outside the region are encouraged if they benefit local communities. The foundation prioritizes innovative, collaborative approaches that address education, health, and economic development challenges.
Urban Planning Education - Preschool / Early Learning Education - K through 12 +6 more

The Alice M. Ditson Fund: Organizational Support - Fall Deadline

The Alice M. Ditson Fund
Association/Society
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Unspecified amount
The Alice M. Ditson Fund offers organizational support for summer festivals and conferences focused on contemporary American classical music. This funding opportunity encourages the appreciation of works by younger, relatively unknown American composers. Eligible applicants include performing organizations and institutions that promote artistic excellence. The Fund emphasizes supporting living composers at various career stages, ensuring a broader recognition of their contributions to classical concert music. It is crucial for applicants to align their projects with the Fund's mission of enhancing public knowledge and appreciation.
Music Festivals Classical Music

Cooperative Agreement for Affiliated Partner with the Great Lakes-Northern Forest Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU)

US Department of the Interior: Geological Survey (USGS)
Federal Government
Illinois, Indiana +12 more
Up to US $150,000
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) offers a funding opportunity for CESU partners to conduct research on national-scale biogeographic information for aquatic organisms. This project aims to enhance species distribution models and habitat assessments using advanced analytical methods and artificial intelligence. By aligning with Department of the Interior priorities, it supports informed conservation decisions for aquatic ecosystems and species management, benefiting local communities and scientific collaboration.
Wildlife Management Freshwater Conservation Land / Habitat Conservation +1 more

TX State Wildlife Grants

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
Private
Texas
Unspecified amount
The TX State Wildlife Grants program, initiated by Congress in 2000, offers essential funding to U.S. states and territories for proactive conservation efforts, aiming to prevent fish and wildlife from becoming endangered. This core initiative, supported by a diverse coalition of stakeholders, including conservationists and land developers, plays a vital role in maintaining species health and reducing listings on federal endangered species lists. The Nongame and Rare Species Program will not accept proposals for FY 2024.
Herpetological Conservation Mammalian Conservation Ornithological Conservation +1 more

Star Honors Award

Texas Capital Foundation
Private
Bexar County, Texas, Dallas County, Texas +5 more
US $100,000
The Star Honors Award, offered by the Texas Capital Foundation, recognizes outstanding nonprofit organizations in Texas focusing on Housing Solutions, Education, and Workforce Development. It provides two grants of $50,000 and one grant of $100,000 to support innovative programs addressing critical community needs, especially for veterans and first responders. Eligible nonprofits must demonstrate a minimum three-year performance record and deliver direct services to low- and moderate-income populations within designated Texas areas.
Military & Veterans Services Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Wellness & Healthy Living +3 more

SAF National Awards Program: Technology Transfer Award

Society of American Foresters (SAF)
Association/Society
United States
More than US $1,000
The SAF National Awards Program honors exceptional contributions to forestry through various awards, including the Technology Transfer Award. This award recognizes significant achievements in technology transfer, ensuring vital technical information reaches those involved in forestry management. It includes a $1,000 honorarium and other benefits presented at the SAF national convention. Nominees must be active members of the Society of American Foresters and demonstrate leadership and impact in their field.
Forestry

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 $3.34B available. Instrumentl connects nonprofits to tailored grants from private funders, offering tools for tracking deadlines, customized searches, and insights to maximize impact.

Last updated: November 2, 2026. Next update: December 6, 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 Services

600+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Poverty Alleviation & Services

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
29.7%
Q2
24.7%
Q3
23.5%
Q4
22.1%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Private Grants for Nonprofits?

Grants are most commonly $32,500.

$0 $0 Min.
$32,500 $32.5 K Median
$633,837 $633.8 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 29.7% 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 $32,500, while the average grant awarded is $633,837. 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.