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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

NJDEP Recycling Awards

State of New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection
State/Local Government
New Jersey
Unspecified amount
The NJDEP Recycling Awards recognize outstanding contributions to recycling in New Jersey. This annual event honors individuals, businesses, and institutions that have significantly advanced recycling efforts. Categories include Government, Business, Volunteer Citizen, and more, celebrating innovative programs and dedicated service that promote sustainability and resource management. By showcasing best practices, the awards aim to inspire others to enhance recycling initiatives across the state, contributing to a greener future for New Jersey.
Recycling

Broad Street Children's Foundation Grant

Broad Street Childrens Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Who We Are

Broad Street Children's Foundation is committed to providing financial support to privately funded children's homes caring for the orphaned, abandoned and broken children right here in the United States.

Grant Seekers

Broad Street Children's Foundation supports self-sustaining children's homes across the United States that actively foster the development of strong, well-rounded children in their care.

Since the start of the Foundation, over $1,000,000.00 in grants have been donated to children's homes across the country. Additionally, through the Bill and Jackie Hazelgrove Scholarship Program, we have been able to assist a number of young people to continue their education and work towards a college or vocational degree.

Today, the Broad Street Children's Foundation is continuing the dream of it's original founders through the second generation. Equally as dedicated to changing the lives of children in need across America and striving to break the cycle of abuse and neglect for other children and their families.

Child Welfare Services Vocational & Trade Education Child Abuse & Neglect +2 more

Emergency Relief Grant Program - Ohio

Ohio Water Development Authority (OWDA)
State/Local Government
Ohio
Unspecified amount

Ohio Water Development Authority

The Ohio Water Development Authority (OWDA) provides financial assistance for environmental infrastructure from the sale of municipal revenue bonds through loans to local governments in Ohio and from the issuance of industrial revenue bonds for qualified conduit projects in Ohio.

Emergency Relief Program

For What: Relief from Construction Repayments of Drinking Water, Wastewater, and Solid Waste Infrastructure

Purpose

For short-term relief from OWDA loan repayments so communities can use their repayment funds to recover from damages to their water, wastewater and solid waste infrastructure resulting from a federal or state declared emergency; OR

For construction of infrastructure to provide water and wastewater services to individual homes relocated due to mine subsidence. 

Grant Amount

  • Maximum of 2 semi-annual OWDA loan repayments can be made on behalf of qualifying communities for damages due to a declared federal or state disaster.
  • $25,000 per household to re-establish water and sewer services after being relocated from an area of mine subsidence. 

Disbursement

  • Applied directly at the time of semi-annual billing for damages due to a declared federal or state disaster OR
  • After submission of detailed expenses to re-establish water and sewer services. 
  • Disbursement Request: OWDA Chief Engineer 

See the program guidlines for further information.

Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Waste Management Public Infrastructure

ECF Grant Program

Episcopal Community Foundation for Middle and North Georgia
Association/Society
Baldwin County, Georgia, Banks County, Georgia +79 more
Unspecified amount
The ECF Grant Program supports the Episcopal Diocese of Atlanta by funding ministries that address poverty and oppression. With an emphasis on community partnerships, the program aims to create sustainable impact through service-oriented projects. It welcomes applications from Episcopal parishes and nonprofit partners committed to capacity building and innovative solutions, ensuring spiritual growth for participants. Preference is given to first-time applicants, reinforcing a commitment to fostering thriving, spiritually strong communities in Middle and North Georgia.
Episcopalism Poverty Alleviation & Services Refugee Services +2 more

Conservation District Grant Program

Arkansas Department of Agriculture
State/Local Government
Arkansas
Up to US $25,000

Arkansas Department of Agriculture

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture, forestry, and natural resources to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while conserving natural resources and ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture works closely with Arkansas’s 75 conservation districts to protect and manage the state’s natural resources. We provide ongoing support through technical assistance, program coordination, training, and funding opportunities. Our goal is to strengthen each district’s capacity to deliver effective, locally led conservation efforts across the state.

Conservation District Grant Program

The Conservation District Grant Program provides funding to enhance the ability of conservation districts to carry out local conservation efforts. Through this program, the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission offers grant assistance for projects that promote resource protection, enhancement, or restoration.

Applications are reviewed for feasibility, practicability, and potential benefit to the applying district. After review, Department staff will rank each application and make funding recommendations to the Natural Resources Division Director. The director will then present recommended projects to the commission for final approval. Grant awards are made based on the anticipated conservation impact at the district, regional, or statewide level.

Environmental Conservation Natural Resources Land / Habitat Conservation

Lilly Endowment: Community Development Grant

Lilly Endowment Inc
Private
Marion County, Indiana
Unspecified amount
The Lilly Endowment Community Development Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Indianapolis and across Indiana, supporting initiatives that foster strong neighborhoods, arts, and human services. With a focus on charitable entities, the Endowment prioritizes projects that address societal challenges, especially for communities of color. Organizations interested in funding must submit a preliminary letter detailing their project and funding needs, adhering to guidelines that emphasize local community impact.
Art & Culture Disability Care & Services Basic Human Needs +4 more

Norene Boring Undergraduate Grant

Georgia Ornithological Society
Association/Society
Georgia (US state)
Up to US $1,000
The Norene Boring Undergraduate Grant offered by the Georgia Ornithological Society supports undergraduate students conducting ornithological research in Georgia. Grants of up to $1,000 are available, with priority given to projects in Georgia, followed by those conducted elsewhere in the U.S. Applicants must be enrolled students and GOS members, with research supervised by faculty. This initiative promotes bird conservation and academic exploration of avian life.
Ornithology

Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program

Michigan Department of Natural Resources
State/Local Government
Michigan
US $25,000 - US $250,000
The Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program (MISGP) aims to combat both terrestrial and aquatic invasive species through prevention, detection, eradication, and control strategies. Jointly managed by the Departments of Natural Resources, Environmental Quality, and Agriculture, this program focuses on strengthening the early detection network, preventing new invasions, and controlling established species. Funding is prioritized based on specific criteria, project metrics, and geographic location, ensuring effective resource allocation.
Invasive Species Control

Shallow Draft Navigation Channel Dredging Projects

North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality
State/Local Government
North Carolina
Unspecified amount

Overview

The purpose of this program is to provide cost-share grants and technical assistance to local governments throughout the state. Applications for grants are accepted for seven eligible project types: general navigation, recreational navigation, water management, stream restoration, water-based recreation, Natural Resources Conservation Service Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) stream restoration projects and feasibility/engineering studies. The navigation and coastal storm damage mitigation projects are collectively referred to as coastal infrastructure projects. The non-navigation projects are collectively referred to as state and local projects.

Shallow Draft Navigation Channel Dredging Projects

According to N.C. Gen. Stat. § 143-215.73F, revenue in the Fund may only be used to provide the State’s cost share of the costs associated with any dredging project designed to keep shallow draft navigation channels located in State waters or waters of the State located within lakes navigable and safe. The cost share for dredging projects shall be at least one non-State dollar for every three dollars from the fund (S.L. 2022.74). No cost-share shall be required for dredging projects located, in whole or part, in a development tier one area for a ferry channel maintained by the North Carolina Department of Transportation.

Water Resource Management

Rural Health Transformation Program Funding Opportunity for Rapid Response to Recovery – CMHC Support: Program Focus Area 2 - Crisis Response EMS Training and Care Coordination

Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services
State/Local Government
Kentucky
Unspecified amount

Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services

Our mission is to be a diverse and inclusive organization providing programs, services and supports that protect and promote the health and well-being of all Kentuckians and their communities.

Rural Health Transformation Program Funding Opportunity for Rapid Response to Recovery – CMHC Support

About the Program

This project is 100% funded by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for a total of $212.9 million in budget year 1 with 100% by CMS/HHS. The RHTF grant spans five budget periods aligned with federal fiscal years (FY2026– FY2030). Funding is disbursed annually by CMS based on achievement of performance metrics.

Rapid Response to Recovery - CMHC Support

Kentucky RHT is investing in strengthening the behavioral health crisis system and safety net across the Commonwealth. Community Mental Health Centers are invited to apply for funding to support follow-up care after EmPATH visits and provide behavioral health training and coordination support for EMS agencies. 

Program Focus Areas: i) Program Focus Area 1: EmPATH ii) Program Focus Area 2: Crisis Response EMS Training and Care Coordination

Program Focus Area 2: Crisis Response EMS Training and Care Coordination

Purpose

Funds may be used to support CMHC-led training, coordination, and integration activities for community-based crisis response in partnership with EMS agencies.

Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Crisis Intervention Emergency Medical Care & Services

Aquatic Invasive Species Grant Program

Montana Department of Natural Resources & Conservation
State/Local Government
Montana
Up to US $50,000
The Aquatic Invasive Species Grant Program, managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, provides funding to combat aquatic invasive species in Montana. With an annual budget of $278,580, the program supports projects aimed at prevention, control, and education. Eligible projects can receive up to $50,000 and may include monitoring, outreach, and applied research. Local proposals addressing state-wide priorities will receive preference during the evaluation process.
Invasive Species Control

Fund for Women Grant

Delaware Community Foundation
Private
Delaware
Up to US $15,000
The Fund for Women Grant, administered by the Delaware Community Foundation, supports nonprofit organizations dedicated to empowering women and girls in Delaware. This one-year grant provides financial assistance for innovative programs that enhance the potential of women and girls. Eligible applicants must demonstrate 501(c)(3) status and address the specific needs of this demographic. The grant aims to foster self-sufficiency and productive lives, ensuring that women and girls can achieve their full potential.
Women & Girl Services Women's Health Reproductive Education +2 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

The Philadelphia Botanical Club Grant for Botanical Research, Education, and Conservation

Philadelphia Botanical Club
Association/Society
Pennsylvania
Up to US $4,000
The Philadelphia Botanical Club Grant supports members engaged in research, education, and conservation projects focused on plant life in the Philadelphia area. This includes studies on flora, algae, lichens, and fungi, with an emphasis on advancing knowledge through peer-reviewed publications and community engagement. Eligible applicants must be current members of the Club, and projects can receive funding for supplies, educational materials, and travel expenses, with a preference for smaller grants.
Phycology Mycology Botanical Conservation +1 more

Emerging Research Grants- Focused Discovery Awards - Type 2 (HHF-FDA-2)

Hearing Health Foundation
Private
United States
US $70,000 - US $140,000
The Focused Discovery Awards - Type 2 (HHF-FDA-2) provide funding of up to $50,000 for innovative research addressing hearing and balance issues. Open to investigators at any career stage, these grants aim to support new lines of inquiry in underfunded areas of otology. The Hearing Health Foundation encourages applications that demonstrate strong research training and institutional support, fostering advancements in hearing health for millions affected by related conditions.
Hearing Disorders & Audiology Meniere’s Disease Otorhinolaryngology

East Boston Foundation: Education, Training and Child Care Support Grants (ETCCS)

East Boston Foundation
Private
Suffolk County, Massachusetts
Up to US $25,000

The East Boston Foundation

The foundation was formed in 1998 to administer a generous $9.6 million commitment from the Massachusetts Port Authority as part of community mitigation and to offset the impacts associated with Massport's $4.4 Billion Logan Airport Modernization Program.

Categories of Grants

The Board of Trustees of the East Boston Foundation has identified the following categories of grants, which in the discretion of the Board may be amended from time to time. Grant requests and applications shall be grouped into various categories and identified as follows:

Education, Training and Child Care Support Grants (ETCCS)

The Foundation also recognizes the need for various educational enhancements and support, including but not limited to specialty education and training; private/public school support; adult training and education; and early childhood/preschool support as a means of achieving part of its objective.

The Foundation will consider applications for education, training, and child care support which meet the following minimum criteria:

  • The proponent have at least two (2) years of demonstrated experience in the successful coordination of such events or can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Board its ability to carry out such objectives;
  • The program is capable of providing a substantial benefit on the residents of the East Boston community regardless of gender, race, religion, ethnicity, national origin or handicap;
  • The Grant sought from the Foundation shall not exceed 50% of the applicant’s average total cash revenue (excluding in kind support) for the two (2) years preceding the application as demonstrated by the Applicant’s 990/990EZ filing or Form PC filed with the Massachusetts Attorney General;
  • The allocation of the Foundation’s grant money may be used for expenses related to salaries and or wage benefits, however the amount so allocated from any grant may not exceed 50% of the grant awarded and provided that salaries and wage benefits for the specific program do not exceed 50% of the total proposed budget.
  • In certain circumstances, the proponent provides reasonable assistance to disadvantaged individuals who experience financial hardship and who would otherwise be prohibited from participation.
  • A grant to the organization shall not result in the creation of a general unrestricted surplus for the program’s operating budget.
  • The applicant adequately demonstrates an ability to generate the remaining revenue as contemplated under its proposed budget
Education - Preschool / Early Learning Early Childhood Development Adult Education +3 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

Bernick's Beverages and Vending Fund Grants

CommunityGiving
Private
Aitkin County, Minnesota, Anoka County, Minnesota +36 more
US $5,000 - US $40,000
The Bernick's Beverages and Vending Fund Grants aim to support organizations that align with the Bernick family's values, offering up to $150,000 in funding for 8-10 eligible groups. Focus areas include youth education and fitness initiatives, with grants ranging from $5,000 to $40,000. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, schools, and government entities within Bernick's operational regions. The foundation seeks innovative programs that foster community engagement and promote healthy lifestyles.
Wellness & Healthy Living Youth Development & Leadership Education +2 more

CFNC: GroupGives

Community Foundation of Northern Colorado
Private
Larimer County, Colorado
Unspecified amount
The GroupGives Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Northern Colorado, aims to assist individuals in securing and maintaining housing through education, home maintenance, and financial support. Established in 2012, it provides strategic grants to nonprofit organizations focused on affordable and supportive housing within Larimer County. With both annual Impact Grants and smaller project grants, GroupGives embodies the belief that every person deserves a place to call home.
Equitable & Affordable Housing Supportive Housing & Shelters

NourishMD Grant Program

Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development
State/Local Government
Maryland
US $25,000 - US $150,000

Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development 

The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development transforms communities into places people want to call home. Through investments in community-led placemaking, housing and small business development, infrastructure and broadband deployment, we partner with local government, nonprofits, and private sector stakeholders to make great places.

NourishMD Grant Program

The Nouri​shMD Grant Program is a targeted investment designed to expand access to healthy and fresh foods in Maryland communities experiencing food insecurity by providing direct grants to eligible retailers. 

Food Security Rural Development Food Access & Hunger

Port of Virginia Economic and Infrastructure Development Grant (POV Grant)

Commonwealth of Virginia
State/Local Government
Virginia
Unspecified amount

Discretionary Incentives

Port of Virginia Economic and Infrastructure Development Grant (EID Grant)

The Port of Virginia Economic and Infrastructure Development Grant (EID Grant) is designed to incentivize companies to locate new maritime-related employment centers or expand existing centers to encourage growth of facilitate cargo growth at The Port of Virginia. EID Grants are administered by the Virginia Port Authority.

For additional program information, refer to Growth Incentive Grants.

EID Grants are made at the discretion of the Executive Director of the Virginia Port Authority with the expectation that grants awarded will be used to assist a qualified company to locate a new operation or expand an existing operation within the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Subject to appropriation, an EID Grant is available beginning January 1, 2025. The grant fund is subject to a distinct and shared appropriation cap with ITF grant program of $2 million.

Employment Services Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Business Development

Munson Foundation Grant Program

The Curtis & Edith Munson Foundation
Private
Alabama, Broward County, Florida +12 more
US $10,000 - US $40,000
The Curtis and Edith Munson Foundation offers grants focusing on the conservation of natural resources in eastern North America and the Caribbean Basin, particularly in the U.S. Key areas include marine resource management, South Florida ecosystems, and Alabama environmental issues. Grants are site-specific, require a 1:1 match, and are not available for individuals or capital campaigns. Initial inquiries should be submitted by the first or second Friday of April or September.
Environment Environmental Conservation Natural Resources +1 more

SACF: Healthy Youth & Healthy Seniors Fund Grant

Sturgis Area Community Foundation
Private
St. Joseph County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The SACF: Healthy Youth & Healthy Seniors Fund Grant, managed by the Sturgis Area Community Foundation, aims to enhance health and wellness for youth and seniors in St. Joseph County. This grant supports programs that promote healthy lifestyles, including nutrition, mental health, and preventive care. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and government entities serving the Sturgis community. With a focus on impactful initiatives, this grant fosters a healthier future for both youth and seniors.
Youth Services Senior Services Children’s Health & Pediatrics +3 more

Evergy Community Impact Program

Evergy, Inc.
Private
Buchanan County, Missouri, Cass County, Missouri +11 more
Unspecified amount
Evergy Community Investment focuses on enhancing community vitality and environmental leadership. The program prioritizes funding requests that align with its mission to promote sustainability and economic growth in local areas. By supporting initiatives that foster clean energy, workforce readiness, and community engagement, Evergy aims to create a lasting impact. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) status, while specific ineligible categories include individuals and religious organizations. For detailed inquiries, agencies are encouraged to reach out directly.
Community Development & Revitalization Environmental Justice & Advocacy Environmental Stewardship +2 more

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

Norris Area Community Foundation Grant

East Tennessee Foundation
Private
Anderson County, Tennessee
US $1,500 - US $3,000
The Norris Area Community Foundation Grant, an affiliate of the East Tennessee Foundation, aims to address charitable needs in the Norris area. This grant prioritizes projects benefiting youth, military recognition, humane animal care, arts, community pathways, and senior support. Eligible applicants must have a local presence and demonstrate a significant community impact with a minimum funding match of 10%. Certain requests, such as individual grants and capital campaigns, are not funded.
Military & Veterans Services Youth Services Animal Welfare - General +3 more

Eckblad Williams Community Fund Grant- Spring & Fall Cycles

CommunityGiving
Private
Sherburne County, Minnesota, Stearns County, Minnesota +1 more
US $100 - US $900
The Eckblad Williams Community Fund Grant supports enriching projects for ISD 742 orchestra students. With funding ranging from $100 to $900, applications are encouraged for travel scholarships, professional development for teachers, and additional resources for instrument repair and music purchases. The grant aims to enhance existing programs and provide unique learning opportunities for students who may lack access to such experiences.
Symphony / Orchestra

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.