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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

Carolyn Adams Ticket for the Cure - Community Outreach Grant

Illinois Department of Public Health
State/Local Government
Illinois
Up to US $50,000
The Carolyn Adams Ticket for the Cure Community Outreach Grant aims to enhance breast cancer awareness and education through outreach programs in Illinois. Funded by the Illinois Department of Public Health, this initiative supports organizations conducting activities to promote equity in breast cancer outcomes, focusing on underserved populations. Key goals include increasing knowledge about breast health and facilitating access to screening and support services, ultimately improving health outcomes for women and men affected by breast cancer.
Women & Girl Services Breast Cancer Health Care Access & Delivery +2 more

Montana Coal Endowment Program Infrastructure Grant

Montana Department of Commerce
State/Local Government
Montana
Up to US $750,000

Montana Department of Commerce

Mission

The Department of Commerce effectively and efficiently delivers programs and resources through technical assistance, funding/investments, training/consulting, promotion, research, reporting and outreach to provide affordable housing and create sustainable business and economic growth to enhance community vitality to benefit the citizens of Montana.

Montana Coal Endowment Program Infrastructure (MCEP)

The Montana Coal Endowment Program was formally known as the Treasure State Endowment Program. Any references to the Treasure State Endowment Program or “TSEP” now refer to the Montana Coal Endowment Program or “MCEP” as authorized by the 67th Legislature in Senate Bill 258 (Chapter 330, Laws 2021). The Montana Coal Endowment Program (MCEP) is a state-funded program created in 1992 as a result of Legislative Referendum 110. It is designed to help solve serious health and safety problems and assist communities with the financing of public facilities projects. The program helps local governments with constructing or upgrading drinking water systems, wastewater treatment facilities, sanitary or storm sewer systems, solid waste disposal and separation systems, and bridges.

Applicants must have the management capacity to undertake and satisfactorily complete the project applied for and assure proper management of MCEP funds. Grant recipients must be in compliance with applicable auditing and financial reporting requirements and have the capability to specifically assure proper tracking and recording of funds.

Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Waste Management Environmental Contamination & Pollution

Navigator Emergency Department Diversion Models for Non-Urgent Mental Health Concerns (R01 Clinical Trial Required)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Unspecified amount
This grant opportunity from the US Department of Health and Human Services, specifically the National Institutes of Health, aims to examine the effectiveness of family navigation models that divert non-urgent mental health concerns from emergency departments. The initiative seeks to enhance mental health service engagement, provide necessary resources, and support families in overcoming barriers to help-seeking. Key deadlines for applications range from February 2025 to October 2027.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Children’s Mental Health Emergency Medical Care & Services

SAF National Awards Program: Employer Leadership Award

Society of American Foresters (SAF)
Association/Society
United States
More than US $500
The SAF National Awards Program recognizes outstanding contributions to forestry through various awards, including the Employer Leadership Award. This award honors employers who significantly support SAF members' professional engagement. Recipients receive a $500 honorarium, complimentary convention registration, and travel expense support. The program aims to celebrate the achievements of individuals and organizations in promoting sustainable forestry practices and enhancing professional development, ultimately driving excellence in natural resource management.
Forestry

Malt and Brewed Beverage Industry Promotion Program

Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA)
State/Local Government
Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount

Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA)

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture encourages, protects and promotes agriculture and related industries throughout the commonwealth while providing consumer protection through inspection services that impact the health and financial security of Pennsylvania's citizens.

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture exists to ensure a vibrant economy, a successful future for Pennsylvania agriculture, and to safeguard the public through: Targeted investments to grow opportunities and remove barriers; Protecting human, animal, environmental, and plant health through regulatory oversight; Promotion of and education about Pennsylvania’s agriculture products and sectors; Conserving farmland and natural resources for the prosperity of Pennsylvania

Malt and Brewed Beverage Industry Promotion Program

The Pennsylvania Malt and Brewed Beverage Industry Promotion Program was created by state law, and up to $1 million in funding may be allocated annually by the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB) to the program for the purposes of increasing the production of Pennsylvania-made malt and brewed beverages and enhancing the Pennsylvania malt and brewed beverage industries through promotion, marketing, and research-based programs and projects. The Program is administered by five Board members who are appointed by the Governor and the General Assembly. The Board meets throughout the year to solicit, evaluate and recommend projects to the PLCB for funding.

Tourism Farms & Farming Food Security

Church & School Outreach Grants

Gianforte Fam Charitable Tr
Private
Montana
Up to US $3,300
The Gianforte Family Foundation offers Church & School Outreach Grants to empower local Christian churches and schools in Montana. With grants of up to $3,300, the foundation aims to strengthen community outreach through programs that share the Gospel, support families, promote economic flourishing, and provide recovery tools. Eligible applicants must be Christian organizations actively engaging their communities with innovative programs that align with their ministry philosophy.
Christianity Family Services Economic Services & Development +2 more

Emma E. Hill Memorial Scholarship Fund

Chester County Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Emma E. Hill Memorial Scholarship Fund

Mission Statement

The Emma E. Hill Memorial Scholarship Fund was established to memorialize Emma by helping female swimmers pursue their dreams of a college education. The scholarship awards will be granted on an annual basis to female graduating high school senior athletes in Southern Chester County.

About Emma

Emma was an excellent student as a sophomore at Unionville High School (UHS). She loved to swim and was a dedicated member of both the Kennett YMCA Sea Dragons and UHS swim teams. In her spare time, Emma was a lifeguard and also taught young children how to swim at the Y. As a younger child and teenager, Emma excelled on the ballfield in URA softball.

At the young age of 16, Emma passed away following complications caused by a rare type of gastric cancer, a form of the disease that was unheard of in a child and unfortunately found too late. Throughout Emma’s brief illness, she was strong and determined to get better, and did not let her health issues define her in any way.

Emma was beautiful in every sense of the word, and was loved throughout her community and beyond. She worked hard at whatever she was trying to accomplish, but always with a cheery, exuberant attitude and lovely smile. More than anything, her absolute kindness and warm heart are what made Emma our sweet girl.

Education - Higher Education Women & Girl Services Swimming +2 more

Guidelines to Develop Best-In-Class Maintenance Strategies for Vertical Assets RFP

Water Research Foundation
Private
Countries
Up to US $250,000

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.

5415 - Guidelines to Develop Best-In-Class Maintenance Strategies for Vertical Assets

Grant Information

  • Develop a clear understanding of the background and benefits associated with implementing well-rounded maintenance strategies for vertical assets.
  • Develop a structured approach to identify and implement best-in-class maintenance strategies for vertical assets that improve reliability, increase asset availability, reduce unplanned work and emergency shutdowns, support the transition from reactive to proactive maintenance, and minimize total lifecycle cost.
  • Apply leading practices such as Reliability Centered Maintenance (RCM) and cutting-edge technologies and analytics to vertical assets.
Water Resource Management

Carolyn Adams Ticket for the Cure - Patient Navigation Grant

Illinois Department of Public Health
State/Local Government
Illinois
Up to US $300,000
The Carolyn Adams Ticket for the Cure Grant supports organizations in Illinois to enhance patient navigation services for breast cancer. By addressing barriers to care, this initiative promotes timely diagnosis and treatment, ultimately improving outcomes for underserved communities. Funding will be allocated to programs that provide culturally competent education and link individuals to critical screening and prevention services. The grant aims to develop infrastructure that fosters equitable access to breast cancer care and support for survivors.
Women & Girl Services Cancer / Oncology Breast Cancer +1 more

The Save Mart Companies CARES Foundation Grant

Save Mart Cares
Private
California, Oregon +2 more
US $500 - US $10,000

About

With deep roots in California’s Central Valley, The Save Mart Companies and its family of stores prides itself in being a part of neighborhoods and putting people first. Our dedication to customers is reflected in the connections we’ve made in the communities we’ve served for more than 70 years.

The Save Mart Companies CARES Foundation

In 2000, we established The Save Mart Companies CARES Foundation, our philanthropic, non-profit organization, supporting programs and organizations that provide vital resources for children and families in the communities we serve. The CARES Foundation focuses on building stronger communities through fresh foods, accessibility, and programs that support youth and helping them to thrive. Annually, The CARES Foundation contributes approximately $500,000 in small grants to support community-based, non-profit organizations.

The Save Mart Companies CARES Foundation Grant

The CARES Foundation’s focus is building stronger communities through fresh foods, access to food, and programs that support youth and helping them thrive.

The CARES Foundation will review, on a quarterly basis, among other things, the breadth of the audience served; the likely impact in the community; the importance of the need to be addressed in the community; and the community reputation, service history, and financial stability of the group or program seeking funds. No one of these or other factors will necessarily be weighted more heavily than another. Instead, each group or program will be measured against all groups and 2 programs seeking funding at the time. For example, a program serving a small segment of the community but that addresses an especially important community need, and thus has the potential for a strong and meaningful impact, would be favored over a group serving a wider clientele but that fills a less important community need. Requests for Grants should be a minimum of $500.00 up to $10,000.00. Programs and organizations requesting smaller grants should contact the Store Manager of the nearest Save Mart Companies’ store location for request consideration.

Recipients that receive grants for more than one year must demonstrate meaningful outcomes for the previous investment made by The CARES Foundation.

Food Access & Hunger Youth Services Family Services +1 more

Back to Better: Creative Resilience Grants

Centre County Community Foundation Inc.
Private
Centre County, Pennsylvania, Clearfield County, Pennsylvania +2 more
US $3,000
The Back to Better: Creative Resilience Grants aim to support independent artists and creative business owners in Centre, Clearfield, Clinton, and Huntingdon Counties, who are still facing challenges due to the pandemic. Funded by the ARPA Pennsylvania Arts and Culture Recovery initiative, these $3,000 grants provide essential financial assistance to help stabilize their practices, adapt to new realities, and reinvigorate their artistic endeavors, fostering resilience and community recovery.
Music Visual Arts Architecture +2 more

BETA: Roadmaps Grants

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC)
State/Local Government
Massachusetts
Unspecified amount
The BETA: Roadmaps initiative by MassCEC aims to accelerate building electrification and decarbonization for non-profit and public entities in Massachusetts. This program provides actionable roadmaps to achieve zero-emissions building portfolios by 2050, supporting the state’s climate goals. Participants receive tailored decarbonization strategies, addressing their unique needs while fostering sustainable practices across diverse building types. With a focus on efficient procurement and implementation, the initiative aligns with the Commonwealth's broader clean energy objectives.
Electrification Carbon / Greenhouse Gas Reduction

Cyanotoxin Monitoring Equipment and Training Grants

New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services
State/Local Government
New Hampshire
Up to US $15,000
The Cyanotoxin Monitoring Equipment and Training Grants, offered by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, support public water systems in monitoring cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins in surface water sources. Since 2017, these grants have funded essential equipment like fluorometers and microscope cameras, and assist in developing Quality Assurance Project Plans. Eligible applicants include municipalities, non-profit organizations, and various associations. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, ensuring continuous support for water quality initiatives.
Water Resource Management

Travel Awards: Graduate (PhD and/or master's) Students

Biophysical Society
Private
Los Angeles County, California
Up to US $3,750
The Biophysical Society offers Travel Awards for graduate (PhD and master's) students to support their attendance at the Society's Annual Meeting. Eligible applicants must be members of the Society and submit abstracts for presentation. The awards, which can reach up to $750, aim to recognize excellence in biophysics and enhance networking among biophysicists globally. Special provisions exist for those from underrepresented communities and for applicants seeking bridging funds or low-income country travel awards.
Physics Anatomy Bioengineering +6 more

SAF National Awards Program: Outstanding Local Unit Achievement Award

Society of American Foresters (SAF)
Association/Society
United States
More than US $500
The SAF National Awards Program celebrates outstanding contributions to forestry through various awards, including the Outstanding Local Unit Achievement Award. This award recognizes local units for their sustained leadership or special projects that benefit the Society of American Foresters and the forestry profession. Each awarded unit receives a $500 honorarium, complimentary convention registration, and funding for travel expenses, ensuring recognition and support for their impactful efforts in forestry.
Forestry

Navigator Emergency Department Diversion Models for Non-Urgent Mental Health Concerns (R34 Clinical Trial Required)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $450,000
This NOFO aims to enhance research on the effectiveness and implementation of family navigation models that divert non-urgent mental health concerns from emergency departments. It will focus on tools for triaging mental health acuity, engaging families with necessary services, and addressing barriers to help-seeking. Important deadlines for grant applications range from February 2025 to October 2027, with optional Letters of Intent encouraged thirty days prior to each due date.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Children’s Mental Health Emergency Medical Care & Services

Mid-Atlantic Environmental Justice Fund - Track I: EJ Organization Capacity Building

Chesapeake Bay Trust
Private
Delaware, District of Columbia +4 more
Up to US $100,000
The Mid-Atlantic Environmental Justice Fund aims to enhance community-based organizations' capacity for urban forestry through training and support. This initiative focuses on addressing environmental justice issues across the Mid-Atlantic region, promoting health and sustainability through increased tree canopy. By fostering inclusive decision-making, the Fund empowers organizations historically marginalized in securing funding. Projects must align with EPA's disadvantaged community criteria, ensuring equitable access to resources for environmental stewardship.
Forestry

Raymus Foundation Grant

Antone And Marie Raymus Foundation
Private
Fresno County, California, Kern County, California +6 more
Unspecified amount
The Antone E. & Marie F. Raymus Foundation is dedicated to enhancing education, healthcare, and cultural enrichment in the Central Valley. With a focus on serving children and young adults, especially those at risk, the foundation provides essential funding for schools, healthcare programs, and community initiatives. Their commitment to improving access and quality of life through tangible support reflects their deep-rooted belief in empowering local communities. Through strategic partnerships and precise funding allocation, they aim to foster a brighter future for all.
Youth Services Special Needs Education Child Welfare Services +5 more

AWS Wildlife Ecology Research Scholarship

Australian Wildlife Society
Association/Society
Australia
A $5,000
The AWS Wildlife Ecology Research Scholarship, offered by the Australian Wildlife Society, supports Higher Degree by Research students focused on conserving Australia's native wildlife. Each year, one recipient receives a total of $5,000, distributed over two semesters. The scholarship covers operational costs for research projects, including travel, fieldwork, software, and equipment. Eligible candidates must hold a relevant Bachelor’s degree and be enrolled full-time at designated Australian universities. This initiative underscores the commitment to wildlife preservation.
Environmental Conservation Ecology Wildlife Management +1 more

Institutional Grants: Education

Tinker Foundation Incorporated
Private
Argentina, Bolivia +16 more
US $50,000 - US $100,000
The Tinker Foundation's Institutional Grants program supports initiatives aimed at improving educational access and quality in Latin America. With a focus on foundational learning, particularly in early primary education, the program prioritizes projects that enhance literacy and numeracy, evolve curricula, and foster educational equity. Grants range from $50,000 to $150,000 annually, promoting collaboration among civil society organizations to address significant learning gaps exacerbated by recent challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Teacher Development & Training Educational Access & Equity Student Retention & Drop-Out Prevention +3 more

Harbor Management and Access Grant

Maryland Department of Natural Resources
State/Local Government
Maine
Up to US $20,000

Overview

The Submerged Lands Harbor Management and Access Grant (HMA) is administered by the Submerged Lands Program (SLP), a program of the Bureau of Parks and Lands (BPL) within the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF). The SLP works to balance the public’s right to access state waters with demand for private and commercial use of those waters. The SLP administers the Submerged Lands Leasing Program which provides limited leases and easements that allow piers and other structures to be built on or over publicly owned submerged lands. Lease and easement revenues are used to support harbor planning and public access improvements through grants to municipalities and state agencies. Maine’s submerged lands include:

  • Coastal waters:
    • All land from the mean low-water mark out to the three-mile territorial limit (including islands).
  • Tidal Rivers:
    • All land below the mean low-water mark of tidal rivers upstream to the farthest natural reaches of the tides.
  • Great Ponds:
    • All land below the natural low-water mark of ponds that are 10 or more acres in size in their natural state.
  • Boundary Rivers:
    • Land lying between the banks of rivers that form Maine's border with Canada.
Water Resource Management

Eva L. McKenzie Memorial Fund Grant

Eva L. McKenzie Memorial Fund
Private
California
US $5,000 - US $15,000
The Eva L. McKenzie Memorial Fund Grant supports California organizations focusing on the unique needs of blind individuals, and those affected by cerebral palsy or cancer. Established in 1961, the fund aims to provide charitable, scientific, and educational assistance. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt, operate within California, and directly address the challenges faced by these populations. Program areas include education, health, and human services.
Cerebral Palsy Cancer / Oncology Vision Impairment Care & Services

Mother Cabrini Health Foundation: Access to Healthcare Grant Program

Mother Cabrini Health Foundation
Private
New York
More than US $75,000
The Mother Cabrini Health Foundation's Access to Healthcare Grant Program aims to enhance equitable access to healthcare across New York State. By addressing barriers faced by underserved populations, the foundation supports initiatives that ensure all individuals receive necessary health services. Grants typically begin at $75,000, focusing on direct service programs that align with the Catholic Church's ethical principles. This funding is crucial for organizations dedicated to improving healthcare outcomes for disadvantaged communities.
Health Care Access & Delivery Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health Community Health Education +1 more

Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program - Texas

Friends of NRA
Association/Society
Anderson County, Texas, Andrews County, Texas +252 more
US $3,000 - US $5,000

Friends of NRA

Friends of NRA is the National Rifle Association’s premier fundraising program, supporting the future of shooting sports. Since day one, Friends of NRA has been a 100% grassroots effort fueled by a united front to secure the Second Amendment and raise money for the shooting sports.

Committee volunteers are appointed to State Fund Committees to make recommendations for local grant funding in areas such as youth education, women-focused clinics, law enforcement training, hunter safety, range improvement, firearms and marksmanship training and safety. Recognizing the impact American youth has on the future of the shooting sports, State Fund Committees frequently recommend grants for youth programs, allocating the most significant portion of monies to this vital area.

Grant awards fund activities and support programs in the United States to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those in the shooting sports, and to educate the public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context.

Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program - Texas

The Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program provides supplies, equipment, and financial support to a variety of qualified groups and programs at the local level; geared towards youth, women, law enforcement, veterans, the disabled, and the general public, including:

  • General shooting programs
  • Competitive shooting
  • Education, training and safety
  • Hunting and conservation
  • Community outreach
  • Historical education

Grant funding must be used to further a charitable purpose as defined by the Internal Revenue Code under section 501(c)(3) and accompanying rules, regulations, and other IRS law and materials.

Crisis Intervention Sport Shooting Gun Violence Prevention

Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program - Pennsylvania

Friends of NRA
Association/Society
Adams County, Pennsylvania, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania +65 more
US $3,000 - US $5,000

Friends of NRA

Friends of NRA is the National Rifle Association’s premier fundraising program, supporting the future of shooting sports. Since day one, Friends of NRA has been a 100% grassroots effort fueled by a united front to secure the Second Amendment and raise money for the shooting sports.

Committee volunteers are appointed to State Fund Committees to make recommendations for local grant funding in areas such as youth education, women-focused clinics, law enforcement training, hunter safety, range improvement, firearms and marksmanship training and safety. Recognizing the impact American youth has on the future of the shooting sports, State Fund Committees frequently recommend grants for youth programs, allocating the most significant portion of monies to this vital area.

Grant awards fund activities and support programs in the United States to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those in the shooting sports, and to educate the public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context.

Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program - Pennsylvania

The Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program provides supplies, equipment, and financial support to a variety of qualified groups and programs at the local level; geared towards youth, women, law enforcement, veterans, the disabled, and the general public, including:

  • General shooting programs
  • Competitive shooting
  • Education, training and safety
  • Hunting and conservation
  • Community outreach
  • Historical education

Grant funding must be used to further a charitable purpose as defined by the Internal Revenue Code under section 501(c)(3) and accompanying rules, regulations, and other IRS law and materials.

Crisis Intervention Sport Shooting Gun Violence Prevention

Invitation-Only Grant Systems Development or Systemic Change

J. Warren and Lois McClure Foundation
Private
Vermont
More than US $10,000
The J. Warren & Lois McClure Foundation provides invitation-only grants aimed at enhancing postsecondary education opportunities for young Vermonters. By prioritizing equity and systemic change, the foundation supports initiatives that make education more accessible and affordable. Grants range from $10,000 to over $100,000, focusing on scaling Vermont's Free Degree Promise and diversifying the public educator workforce. Organizations serving Vermont's communities are encouraged to apply for funding aligned with these goals.
Career / College Preparation Vocational & Trade Education Teacher Development & Training +1 more

Driver of Health: Food Security Grants

Florida Blue Foundation
Private
Florida
US $90,000 - US $100,000
The Florida Blue Foundation's Driver of Health: Food Security Grants aim to enhance food security for families in vulnerable communities. By improving access to affordable, nutritious food, the initiative seeks to mitigate health risks associated with food insecurity. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and community agencies in Florida, focusing on educational programs that promote self-sufficiency. Priority will be given to areas with high food insecurity, ensuring that targeted populations receive essential support.
Food Access & Hunger Nutrition & Healthy Eating Food Security

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.