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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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32,629 Results based on applied filters

Education and Economic Development Grants

Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation
Private
Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, Fayette County, Pennsylvania +3 more
Unspecified amount
The Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation promotes human development in West Virginia and Southwestern Pennsylvania by providing strategic charitable resources. The foundation focuses on education and economic development, prioritizing projects that enhance teacher quality, support early childhood education, and foster innovative economic initiatives. By investing in programs that bridge geographical boundaries and encourage collaboration among sectors, the foundation aims to cultivate leadership and sustainable growth in the region.
Education System Policy & Reform Career / College Preparation Teacher Development & Training +3 more

Indigo Hope Foundation: At-Risk Youth Development Grant

The Indigo Hope Foundation
Association/Society
Abbeville County, South Carolina, Anderson County, South Carolina +8 more
US $500 - US $100,000

Indigo Hope Foundation: At-Risk Youth Development Grant

Empowering programs that provide mentorship, education, life skills training, and opportunities for young people facing challenges.

Key Focus Areas:

  • Mentorship Programs
  • Educational Support
  • Life Skills Training
  • Career Development

Example Programs We Fund:

  • After-school tutoring and mentorship
  • Job readiness training
  • Leadership development
Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Career / College Preparation Youth Development & Leadership

IPCF's Mirza/Arts & Culture Grants

Illinois Prairie Community Foundation
Private
De Witt County, Illinois, Livingston County, Illinois +2 more
US $600 - US $5,000
The IPCF's Mirza/Arts & Culture Grants support programs focused on art, music, and theatre education, as well as performing and visual arts. Open to tax-exempt organizations, these grants encourage innovative projects benefiting residents of McLean, DeWitt, Livingston, and Logan counties. Applicants may request funding between $600 and $5,000, with a minimum request of $500. The grants emphasize ongoing self-sufficiency and measurable outcomes, fostering community enrichment through diverse artistic initiatives.
Art Education Performing Arts Visual Arts +3 more

Special Education - EI Child & Family Connections (25-444-84-2880-02)

Illinois Department of Human Services: Division of Early Childhood
State/Local Government
Adams County, Illinois, Boone County, Illinois +18 more
US $50,000,000 - US $60,000,000
The Special Education - EI Child & Family Connections program, managed by the Illinois Department of Human Services, aims to provide essential services for families with children under three years old facing challenges like child abuse or neglect. This initiative ensures equitable access to early intervention services throughout Illinois, enhancing the welfare of vulnerable children and promoting their developmental needs effectively.
Children With Disabilities Early Childhood Development Special Needs Education +2 more

Community Support Team Grant Program

Illinois Department of Human Services: Division of Family & Community Services
State/Local Government
Boone County, Illinois, Carroll County, Illinois +7 more
Approximately US $380,708
The Community Support Team Grant Program by the Illinois Department of Human Services aims to enhance services for Northwest Crisis Care System consumers who lack funding in specific counties. This initiative will promote access to vital nursing and psychiatric treatment, responding to individual needs identified in assessments. The program prioritizes diversity and equity, addressing systemic barriers to ensure inclusivity across all demographics and fostering a supportive environment for those facing socioeconomic challenges.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Crisis Intervention Health Facilities & Clinics

Arms Control Negotiation Academy (ACONA) Fellowship

Arms Control Negotiation Academy (ACONA)
Association/Society
Iceland
Unspecified amount
The Arms Control Negotiation Academy (ACONA) Fellowship is a prestigious 12-month program aimed at equipping emerging international security experts with critical negotiation skills and knowledge in arms control. Participants engage in immersive training, collaborate on innovative research, and earn a Certificate in Arms Control Negotiation. This fellowship emphasizes inclusivity, inviting candidates from diverse backgrounds to tackle global security challenges, particularly in the context of rising geopolitical tensions. ACONA aims to foster a new generation of proficient negotiators in arms control.
International / Foreign Affairs International Security Public Policy +1 more

AH27 Adolescent Health Resiliency Competitive Solicitation

Ohio Department of Health and Human Services
State/Local Government
Ohio
Up to US $100,000

Ohio Department of Health

The Ohio Department of Health’s mission is advancing the health and well-being of all Ohioans by transforming the state’s public health system through unique partnerships and funding streams; addressing the community conditions and inequities that lead to disparities in health outcomes; and implementing data-driven, evidence-based solutions.

AH27 Adolescent Health Resiliency Competitive Solicitation

The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Bureau of Maternal, Child, and Family Health announce the availability of funds for the Adolescent Health Resiliency (AH) grant. The Adolescent Health Resiliency and Youth Engagement Initiative seek to strengthen youth resilience and promote trauma-informed communities by building the capacity of adults who work with youth while elevating youth voices in community health planning. This project will expand the existing Adolescent Health Resiliency (AH) train-the-trainer model by equipping youth-serving adults with trauma-informed care knowledge and skills to become trusted adults for adolescents.

In addition, the project will establish youth Engagement Groups (YEGs) that empower youth to actively participate in community decision-making processes. Through collaboration with local health departments and community partners, youth perspectives will be incorporated into Community health Assessment (CHA) and Community Health Improvement Plans (CHIP). The initiative will foster meaningful youth participation, strengthen protective factors for adolescents, and promote community health improvements. 

The grant program will fund up to 11 local community agencies or health departments to implement community-based grants.

Priority will be given to local health departments.

Service Area: Applicants must apply for funds to cover a minimum of one county in the state of Ohio. Counties with smaller population sizes may combine efforts to create an application for two or more counties.

Youth Services Crisis Intervention Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder +2 more

Workforce Retention Funding for Critical Access Hospitals and Their Owned and Operated Clinics

North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services
State/Local Government
North Dakota
Approximately US $270,000
The Workforce Retention Funding program, managed by North Dakota Health and Human Services, aims to bolster the rural healthcare workforce by providing grants to critical access hospitals and their clinics. With approximately $10 million in funding, the initiative supports retention strategies such as employee incentives, childcare partnerships, and professional development. By enhancing workforce sustainability, this program addresses healthcare access challenges in rural communities, aligning with the state's goal to improve overall health outcomes.
Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Rural Development Rural Health Care

NC: Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) - Wetlands Reserve Easement (WRE) Component

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of North Carolina
Federal Government
North Carolina
Unspecified amount
The Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) in North Carolina supports landowners in protecting and enhancing wetlands and agricultural lands through conservation easements. By limiting non-agricultural uses, ACEP ensures the preservation of valuable ecosystems and agricultural viability. The program offers financial assistance for permanent and 30-year easements, facilitating the restoration of degraded wetlands. Additionally, the Wetland Reserve Enhancement Partnership (WREP) enhances habitat protection efforts, prioritizing applications that benefit migratory birds and wildlife.
Land / Habitat Conservation Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Environmental Stewardship

Local Sportsmen’s Group Grant Program

Arizona Game and Fish Department
State/Local Government
Arizona
Unspecified amount
The Local Sportsmen’s Group Grant Program, established by the Arizona Game and Fish Commission in 2007, aims to support local sportsmen’s groups focused on wildlife conservation. This initiative fosters collaboration between these groups and the Arizona Game and Fish Department, preserving outdoor recreational traditions and ensuring sustainable funding for wildlife management. With $75,000 available, the program exemplifies a user-pay model that does not utilize state taxpayer funds, promoting active participation in conservation efforts across Arizona.
Wildlife Management Sport Shooting Sport Fishing

Music Industry Mental Health Fund’s FireAid Grants

Music Health Alliance
Association/Society
Los Angeles County, California
US $2,000
The Music Industry Mental Health Fund’s FireAid Grants aim to support music industry professionals and their families affected by the LA wildfires. By providing up to $2,000 for outpatient mental health services, along with recommendations for qualified providers and follow-up care, this initiative addresses the urgent need for mental health resources in the wake of personal loss and financial hardship. The fund emphasizes continuity of care to ensure that recipients receive comprehensive support as they navigate their recovery.
Firefighting & Fire Prevention Search & Rescue Disaster Preparedness +2 more

Invasive Plant Grant (IPG) Program

State of Arizona
State/Local Government
Arizona
US $75,000 - US $200,000
The Invasive Plant Grant (IPG) Program aims to combat invasive plant species threatening Arizona's forests and grasslands. With $970,000 available, grants range from $50,000 to $200,000 for projects focusing on prevention, control, and eradication. Eligible applicants include local governments, nonprofits, and academic institutions. Projects must provide at least 10% matching funds. Preference is given to initiatives in diverse grassland areas and those offering higher match contributions. This program supports critical ecological restoration efforts.
Invasive Species Control

Community Food Grants

Trailhead Institute
Private
Colorado
US $5,000 - US $20,000
The Community Food Grants program in Colorado provides crucial funding to food pantries, enabling them to purchase and distribute fresh, culturally relevant foods. Administered by the Colorado Blueprint to End Hunger, this initiative aims to enhance food access while supporting local agriculture. Eligible food pantries must comply with specific requirements to ensure equitable food distribution. The program focuses on meeting diverse community needs, emphasizing the importance of culturally significant foods and local agricultural products.
Food Delivery & Distribution Services Food Security

Environmental Conservation: Wildfire Resilience Initiative Grant Program

Gordon E And Betty I Moore Foundation
Private
Alaska, California +4 more
Unspecified amount
The Wildfire Resilience Initiative Grant Program, funded by the Gordon E And Betty I Moore Foundation, addresses the urgent need for wildfire resilience in Western North America. With increasing threats from extreme wildfires due to climate change and human activity, this initiative aims to transform fire's role from a destructive force to a beneficial element. By supporting research, early interventions, and community preparedness, the program seeks to foster a collaborative approach to enhancing ecosystem health and community safety.
Climate Change Resilience & Equity Fire Ecology

Henry and Ruth Blaustein Rosenberg Foundation Grant

Jacob And Hilda Blaustein Foundation Inc
Private
Baltimore City, Maryland
Unspecified amount
The Henry and Ruth Blaustein Rosenberg Foundation, established in 1959, focuses on enhancing educational opportunities and community vitality in Baltimore. It supports nonprofit organizations in two areas: Youth Development, promoting trauma-informed enrichment programs for high school youth, and Environmental Stewardship, aiming to foster community engagement in small-scale environmental initiatives. The foundation accepts proposals on a rolling basis and prioritizes organizations with proven success in improving educational outcomes and community well-being.
Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Youth Development & Leadership Environmental Stewardship

TERF Research Grants

Thoroughbred Education and Research Foundation
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount
The Thoroughbred Education and Research Foundation (TERF) offers grants to support thoroughbred health, welfare, and education. Focused on enhancing equine research and safety in racing, TERF prioritizes funding for scholarships, educational programs, and veterinary medicine. Eligible applicants must be recognized 501(c)(3) organizations, with a commitment to transparency in reporting. This initiative aims to significantly impact the thoroughbred industry by fostering improved care and understanding of these horses, contributing to their overall welfare.
Mammalogy

TERF Education Grants

Thoroughbred Education and Research Foundation
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount
The Thoroughbred Education and Research Foundation (TERF) offers grants to support education and research related to Thoroughbred horses. The foundation prioritizes funding for scholarships, educational programs, and equine research aimed at promoting thoroughbred health and welfare. Eligible applicants include qualified 501(c)(3) organizations, while those previously funded must submit reports before applying again. Notably, TERF does not provide funds for facilities caring for unwanted horses or cover overhead costs for grants.
Mammalogy

Eunice Lou Gower McHugh Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee
Private
Robertson County, Tennessee
Unspecified amount
The Eunice Lou Gower McHugh Scholarship Fund, established through a generous land donation by Eunice Lou Gower McHugh, honors her parents' legacy of community service. Administered by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, this scholarship supports graduates from Robertson County high schools who are committed to careers in service-oriented fields like teaching, nursing, and law enforcement. With a mission to foster positive change, this fund ensures that future generations have the opportunity to pursue their educational goals.
Academic Scholarship Programs Nursing Police & Law Enforcement +2 more

Aaron Thomas Gelineau Fund for Educational Opportunity ( Fall cycle)

Boreal Waters Community Foundation
Private
St. Louis County, Minnesota
US $2,000
The Aaron Thomas Gelineau Fund for Educational Opportunity, managed by the Boreal Waters Community Foundation, focuses on supporting Duluth nonprofits that assist underserved youth and families. It aims to promote cradle-to-career success through education, including high school completion and GED support. The fund prioritizes programs that address the opportunity gap and demonstrate a positive impact on youth and families. Funding may cover essential expenses such as transportation and supplies to enhance educational access.
Tutoring & Mentoring After School / Summer Educational Programs Career / College Preparation +2 more

Carl Hill Memorial Scholarship

Delaware Community Foundation
Private
United States
US $500

Carl Hill Memorial Scholarship

Awards:

  • One time award of $500.
Education - Higher Education Financial Literacy Business Education +1 more

Department of Pesticide Regulation- Sustainable Pest Management Grants Program

California Department of Pesticide Regulation
State/Local Government
California
US $100,000 - US $1,000,000
The California Department of Pesticide Regulation offers the Sustainable Pest Management Grants Program to support innovative projects that enhance sustainable pest management practices. The program aims to reduce pesticide impacts on human health and the environment, focusing on priority areas such as weed management, rodenticide use, and the use of high-interest pesticides. Projects should align with integrated pest management strategies and contribute to the three sustainability pillars of human health, environmental protection, and economic vitality.
Insect Pest Control

Enhancing Pastoral and Social Ministry Grants

Catholic Extension
Association/Society
Acadia Parish, Louisiana, Accomack County, Virginia +994 more
Unspecified amount
Catholic Extension's Enhancing Pastoral and Social Ministry Grants aim to empower the church to broaden its outreach and foster societal transformation through targeted pastoral and social initiatives. This program supports specific elements of the church's ministerial efforts, including funding for catechetical resources, marriage and family ministries, and social outreach for vulnerable populations. By investing in these areas, Catholic Extension seeks to enhance the church's role in communities, especially following disasters.
Catholicism Family Services Homelessness Services +3 more

Emerging Research Grants- Expanded Discovery Awards (HHF-EDA)

Hearing Health Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $200,000
The Expanded Discovery Awards (HHF-EDA) by the Hearing Health Foundation provide crucial funding up to $100,000 per year for innovative research in hearing and balance. These awards support both emerging and established investigators addressing specific topics in the field. With a focus on early career researchers, HHF-EDA aims to foster groundbreaking work that can lead to significant advancements in treatment and understanding of hearing loss, benefiting millions affected by these conditions.
Hearing Disorders & Audiology Meniere’s Disease Otorhinolaryngology

Cooperative Agreement for Affiliated Partner with the Pacific Northwest Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU)

US Department of the Interior: Geological Survey (USGS)
Federal Government
Alaska, Canada +5 more
Up to US $360,000
This project aims to enhance the management of freshwater habitats in the Northwest, vital for native fish like bull trout and salmon. By developing a predictive modeling tool, it addresses threats from non-native species and environmental changes. The initiative aligns with federal conservation efforts and prioritizes science-based strategies to safeguard ecosystems and support recreational fishing, benefiting both local economies and tribal resources.
Wildlife Management Freshwater Conservation Land / Habitat Conservation +1 more

The Women's Fund of Central Ohio Grants

The Women's Fund of Central Ohio
Private
Delaware County, Ohio, Fairfield County, Ohio +5 more
Unspecified amount
The Women's Fund of Central Ohio supports organizations that empower women and girls through various initiatives, including civic engagement, health education, leadership development, and economic security. By prioritizing trust-based and participatory grantmaking, the Fund aims to dismantle gender norms and promote equitable solutions. Grants are awarded annually to innovative programs focused on these areas, ensuring that the voices of those most affected by systemic inequity are elevated and heard.
Women's Rights & Equality Reproductive Rights Reproductive Education +2 more

Presenter Consortium for Jazz Grant

Chamber Music America
Private
United States
Up to US $15,000
The Presenter Consortium for Jazz Grant, offered by Chamber Music America, supports U.S.-based presenters collaborating to engage professional jazz ensembles. This grant provides up to $39,000 for expenses like ensemble fees, concert production, and marketing. Each consortium can include up to three presenters and aims to enhance the jazz experience through live performances and streamed concerts. Eligible projects must involve CMA’s New Jazz Works grantees, fostering creativity and community engagement in jazz.
Chamber Music

Les Mehrhoff Botanical Research Award

New England Botanical Society
Association/Society
Connecticut, Delaware +9 more
Up to US $2,000
The Les Mehrhoff Botanical Research Award, established by the New England Botanical Society, supports innovative botanical research that enhances our understanding of New England's flora. Open to applicants without membership, it prioritizes projects lacking traditional funding sources. Eligible expenses include fieldwork, lab supplies, and moderate stipends. This award encourages researchers to explore unconventional inquiries and fosters a deeper appreciation for the diverse plant life in northeastern North America.
Botanical Conservation Mycology Phycology +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 $3.34B 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.