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Best Private Grants for Nonprofits

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

32,000+

Available grants

$8.25B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

32,000+ grants
$8.25B total
$6K median

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32,241 Results based on applied filters

Edge of Appalachia – Adams County Fund Grant

Foundation for Appalachian Ohio
Private
Adams County, Ohio
Up to US $25,000
The Edge of Appalachia – Adams County Fund Grant provides up to $25,000 to support projects in Adams County, Ohio, focusing on environmental protection, renewable energy, and reducing disparities in food security and healthcare. With a total funding pool of $100,000 for 2024, eligible applicants include public and nonprofit organizations serving the county. Ineligible expenses include fossil fuel projects and administrative costs. This initiative aims to enhance community well-being and promote sustainable practices.
Environment Renewable/Sustainable Energy Food Security +6 more

Gladys Brooks Foundation Grants

The Gladys Brooks Foundation
Private
United States
US $50,000 - US $150,000
The Gladys Brooks Foundation supports innovative projects in libraries, education, hospitals, and clinics. Grants focus on resource endowments, capital construction, and equipment aimed at improving public access to information and educational resources. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations located in specific states and demonstrate that projects will be funded primarily by the grant. Applications for direct salary support or research projects are not accepted.
Education - Higher Education Health Facilities & Clinics Library Services +6 more

BJA FY 2026 Public Safety and Mental Health Initiative

US Department of Justice: Bureau of Justice Assistance
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $3,000,000
The BJA FY 2026 Public Safety and Mental Health Initiative aims to enhance public safety by addressing untreated mental illness and substance use. This program supports coordinated intervention efforts across various agencies, improving access to treatment and reducing recidivism. By fostering comprehensive service networks, it seeks to restore order in communities affected by homelessness and mental health challenges, ultimately enhancing community well-being and trust in public spaces.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Drug Use Disorder +3 more

Community Grantmaking: Granville County Community Foundation Grants

North Carolina Community Foundation Inc
Private
Granville County, North Carolina
US $1,000 - US $4,000
The Granville County Community Foundation (GCCF) offers grants to nonprofits to support community enhancement. Established in 1997, GCCF allocates funds from its endowments, including the Martha Frances Pruitt Endowment Fund, to organizations meeting eligibility criteria such as being tax-exempt public charities or local government units. The foundation encourages diverse community programs while excluding funding for political purposes, loans, or general operating support for religious entities. This initiative aims to foster inclusive community development.
Human & Social Services Youth Development & Leadership Education +13 more

BCF: Community Grant

Benton Community Foundation
Private
Benton County, Oregon
Up to US $10,000
The BCF Community Grant offers funding opportunities for organizations that support the growth of children, youth, and families in Benton County. With a cap of $10,000, grants can be requested for programs in arts, human services, education, and community betterment. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and others serving the county. However, funding is not available for discriminatory practices or private individuals. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare and development.
Youth Services Youth Involvement in the Arts Art & Culture +9 more

Small Cities Development Program

Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED)
State/Local Government
Aitkin County, Minnesota, Becker County, Minnesota +79 more
US $600,000 - US $1,400,000
The Small Cities Development Program (SCDP) provides essential funding to cities, townships, and counties for housing, public infrastructure, and commercial rehabilitation projects. Aimed at benefiting low-and-moderate income households, SCDP enhances community viability by facilitating economic opportunities and improving living conditions. Administered by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), this program offers competitive grants for diverse development needs, with funding caps of $600,000 for single-purpose projects and $1.4 million for comprehensive initiatives.
Architecture Public Infrastructure Real Estate & Housing +3 more

Kleberg Foundation: Community Services Grant

Robert J. Kleberg, Jr. and Helen C. Kleberg Foundation
Private
Brooks County, Texas, Jim Wells County, Texas +3 more
Unspecified amount
The Kleberg Foundation: Community Services Grant supports IRS-registered 501(c)(3) organizations and public universities focused on enhancing the quality of life in Kingsville and surrounding areas. Key funding areas include health, education, and social services. The Foundation seeks innovative projects that improve health outcomes, foster educational growth, and provide essential social services for low-income families. Applications from organizations with a history of funding are welcome, while new applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria.
Education Youth Services Poverty Alleviation & Services +10 more

Gaskins Environmental Scholarship

Community Foundation of South Georgia
Private
Appling County, Georgia, Bleckley County, Georgia +14 more
Unspecified amount

Who We Are

Founded in 1996, the Community Foundation of South Georgia is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to making South Georgia a better place to live through effective philanthropy. We help individuals, families, nonprofit organizations and businesses establish and manage charitable funds that carry out their philanthropic interests. Serving a geographic area of 35 counties in South Georgia, we facilitate our donors’ charitable plans and goals by creating custom designed funds that meet their specific interests and ensure solid financial management and administration for each fund. 

Gaskins Environmental Scholarship

For graduating seniors from a high school located in South Georgia or college students who are currently enrolled in a college or university located in South Georgia and have attained at least a 2.5 GPA in high school or college.

High School student applicants must intend on majoring in Environmental Science. College student applicants must already be enrolled as an Environmental Science major. Environmental Science majors include but are not limited to Biology, Forestry, Wildlife or Botany. 

Awards are based on Academics, Leadership Qualities, Extracurricular School Activities, Community Service and Financial Need.

Environmental Education Biology Forestry +2 more

AFI Grant - One-time Grants and Renewals

Adient Foundation Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The AFI Grant, administered by the Adient Foundation, Inc., supports charitable organizations across the U.S. with a focus on philanthropic efforts. These one-time grants do not guarantee future funding, emphasizing a need for organizations to demonstrate sound management and community impact. Each year, past recipients must reapply under the standard application process, ensuring that support aligns with equal opportunity objectives and the Foundation's mission to complement public funding.
Community Services Performing Arts Civic Engagement & Education +11 more

Chatham Fund Grant

The Cape Cod Foundation
Private
Barnstable County, Massachusetts
US $2,500 - US $5,000
The Chatham Fund, part of The Cape Cod Foundation, provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations that positively impact Chatham residents. With grants typically ranging from $2,500 to $5,000, the Fund focuses on proven programs, pilot projects, and organizational development. Priorities include addressing hunger, children's needs, and environmental concerns. Organizations must wait a year to reapply after receiving a grant, ensuring a fair process for all applicants.
Community Services Food Access & Hunger Environment +7 more

Morton K. and Jane Blaustein Foundation Grant

Jacob And Hilda Blaustein Foundation Inc
Private
Baltimore City, Maryland, Baltimore County, Maryland +6 more
Unspecified amount
The Morton K. and Jane Blaustein Foundation Grant supports initiatives addressing climate justice, racial equity, and immigrant rights. It prioritizes organizations working towards sustainable climate solutions, advocating against racial injustices, and protecting the rights of immigrants and refugees. The foundation focuses its efforts particularly in areas affected by institutionalized racism and climate change, with a geographic emphasis on Baltimore, New York, and the DC Capital Region. Proposals are welcomed on a rolling basis.
Immigration & Refugee Rights Immigrant Services Refugee Services +4 more

VCF: Green Mountain Fund Grant

Vermont Community Foundation
Private
Caledonia County, Vermont, Lamoille County, Vermont +1 more
US $500 - US $5,000
The Green Mountain Fund, established by the Vermont Community Foundation, offers grants between $500 and $5,000 to support charitable activities in Lamoille and Orleans Counties. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt organizations and municipalities serving these areas. The Fund prioritizes projects that enhance community engagement, sustainability, and food security, and does not support capital campaigns or previously incurred expenses. Applications are accepted year-round, with funding decisions typically made within six to eight weeks.
Sustainability Senior Services Environment +11 more

AmeriCorps State and National Rhode Island Grants

ServeRI
State/Local Government
Rhode Island
Unspecified amount
The AmeriCorps State and National Rhode Island Grants, offered by ServeRI, empower organizations to tackle community needs by recruiting and training AmeriCorps members. These grants aim to enhance civic engagement and support pathways for participants to advance their careers or education. Successful proposals must demonstrate how AmeriCorps service positions address specific community challenges while providing meaningful benefits to the members. This initiative fosters collaboration among nonprofits, schools, and government agencies to improve lives and strengthen communities across Rhode Island.
Community Services Poverty Alleviation & Services Reentry Services +7 more

FMG Agriculture Scholarships

Farmers Mutual Group (FMG)
Corporate
New Zealand
Up to NZ $20,000
The FMG Agriculture Scholarships support two first-year agriculture students at Massey, Waikato, Otago, or Lincoln University with a $5,000 payment towards course fees. This scholarship is renewable for up to three years, contingent on maintaining a B- average. Eligible fields include Agriculture, Agribusiness, and Environmental Policy, among others. Applicants passionate about the agriculture industry are encouraged to apply.
Urban Planning Agriculture Plant Science +6 more

Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation Grants

The Irene E And George A Davis Foundation
Private
Hampden County, Massachusetts
Unspecified amount
The Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation provides grants to nonprofit organizations serving Hampden County, Massachusetts. Funding areas include early education, health, economic mobility, and arts. The Foundation supports general operating, capital, program, capacity building, and emergency funding to foster community development and address pressing needs. Eligible organizations must demonstrate measurable outcomes and a commitment to sustainable change while enhancing collaboration among local nonprofits.
Education - Preschool / Early Learning Art & Culture Health & Medicine +10 more

BGE Charitable Contributions

Baltimore Gas and Electric Company
Corporate
Anne Arundel County, Maryland, Baltimore City, Maryland +5 more
Unspecified amount
BGE Charitable Contributions supports community enhancement through focused corporate giving in four key areas: building Exelon's future workforce, energy empowerment, local vitality enrichment, and equal access to arts and culture. By investing in diverse nonprofit organizations, BGE aims to create sustainable improvements in education, environmental conservation, and cultural access, fostering an inclusive environment that reflects the values and needs of the communities it serves.
STEM / STEAM Education Climate Change Resilience & Equity Environmental Stewardship +6 more

RWSF Direct Grants

Red Wing Shoe Foundation
Corporate
Goodhue County, Minnesota, Washington County, Missouri
Unspecified amount
The Red Wing Shoe Foundation's RWSF Direct Grants aim to enhance community well-being by supporting non-profit organizations that serve areas where employees live and work. Grants focus on education, arts, environmental protection, and youth development, especially for at-risk individuals. The foundation values inclusivity and does not discriminate based on race, gender, or disability, ensuring that their contributions positively impact local communities.
Environment Youth Services Environmental Conservation +8 more

Richard L. Blinder Award

James Marston Fitch Charitable Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $15,000
The Richard L. Blinder Award, presented biennially by the James Marston Fitch Charitable Foundation, recognizes architects and professionals in historic preservation for innovative proposals that advance architectural preservation in the U.S. The award encourages originality, whether through real projects or polemical exercises. With a funding limit of $15,000, recipients must demonstrate a need for their study and a realistic dissemination plan within 24 months, contributing to the preservation community.
Urban Planning Architecture Landscape Architecture +6 more

GFO-23-318 – BRIDGE 2024: Bringing Rapid Innovation Development to Green Energy (CA)

California Energy Commission
State/Local Government
California
US $1,000,000 - US $4,000,000
The GFO-23-318 – BRIDGE 2024 initiative aims to accelerate clean energy innovation in California by funding Applied Research and Development (AR&D) and Technology Demonstration and Deployment (TD&D) projects. With over $25 million available, this program supports promising technologies that have received prior funding from the California Energy Commission or eligible federal agencies. It focuses on enhancing entrepreneurship by providing non-dilutive investments to early-stage clean energy companies, fostering market adoption of efficient energy solutions.
Renewable/Sustainable Energy Green Infrastructure Emerging Technology Development +3 more

McMurry Foundation Grant

McMurry Foundation
Private
Natrona County, Wyoming
Unspecified amount
The McMurry Foundation Grant, established in 1998, focuses on enhancing the well-being of communities in Wyoming, particularly in Natrona County. It supports a range of initiatives, including education, health services, and the arts, aimed at fostering innovation and self-sufficiency among local organizations. The Foundation provides funding for both new and established programs to create lasting community impact while adhering to values of excellence and compassion.
Education Religion & Spirituality Human & Social Services +12 more

AFI Grant - Multi-year Grants

Adient Foundation Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The AFI Grant, administered by the Adient Foundation, Inc., aims to support philanthropic organizations in the U.S. that are tax-exempt. While primarily offering one-time grants, the Foundation evaluates proposals based on organizational structure, community impact, and management capacity. The Foundation complements public institutions and does not guarantee future funding based on past contributions. Grantees must operate with equal opportunity objectives, and past recipients must submit new applications each year.
Art & Culture Education Community Services +11 more

Solid Waste Disposal and Recycling Project Funding

South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources
State/Local Government
South Dakota
Unspecified amount
The Solid Waste Disposal and Recycling Project Funding aims to enhance solid waste management across South Dakota by providing grants and low-interest loans. Eligible applicants include municipalities, counties, and tribes that can develop facilities for waste management or recycling. Projects should align with the state's waste management hierarchy, focusing on source reduction, recycling, and energy production. Funding primarily comes from the Solid Waste Management program, ensuring sustainable practices while protecting the environment.
Waste Management Recycling Energy +1 more

Welfare Foundation Grant

Welfare Foundation, Inc.
Private
Chester County, Pennsylvania, Delaware
Unspecified amount
The Welfare Foundation Grant focuses on supporting nonprofits in Delaware and southern Chester County, emphasizing capital grants. With an annual budget of around $5 million, the Foundation has contributed approximately $130 million over 25 years. Eligible organizations must hold 501(c)(3) status and comply with non-discrimination policies. The Foundation prioritizes sectors such as social services, housing, health, education, environment, civic engagement, and the arts, while excluding annual support and political activities.
Health & Medicine Human & Social Services Education +11 more

Scientific & Regulatory Consultants, Inc. Scholarship

Community Foundation of Whitley County
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount

Scientific & Regulatory Consultants, Inc. Scholarship

Science plays a vital role in our daily lives and includes a wide range of fields such as physician or veterinary services, nursing, microbiology, biology, chemistry, engineering, mathematics, psychology, music, etc. This scholarship views “scientific” very broadly and invites you to be creative.

Your application will be reviewed based upon the quality, not quantity, of the response to each question.

Applicants may apply every year.

Education - Higher Education Science Career / College Preparation +9 more

Water & Waste Disposal Grant Program in New Hampshire

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
New Hampshire
Unspecified amount
The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in New Hampshire provides essential funding for clean drinking water systems, sewage disposal, and stormwater management in rural areas. Eligible applicants include government entities, nonprofits, and federally-recognized tribes who cannot access commercial credit. The program supports various related activities, including legal fees and land acquisition, ensuring that communities can maintain and improve their water infrastructure effectively.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Waste Management

Water & Waste Disposal Grant Program in New Jersey

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
New Jersey
Unspecified amount
The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in New Jersey provides essential funding for the development of clean drinking water systems, sewage disposal, solid waste management, and storm water drainage in eligible rural areas. This initiative supports local governments, nonprofits, and tribes that struggle to secure commercial credit. Eligible projects include construction and improvement of water infrastructure, ensuring reliable services for communities with populations of 10,000 or less.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Waste Management

Water & Waste Disposal Grant Program in New Mexico

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
New Mexico
Unspecified amount
The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in New Mexico provides crucial funding for rural areas to establish clean drinking water systems, sanitary sewage disposal, solid waste management, and storm water drainage. Eligible applicants include state and local governments, private nonprofits, and federally-recognized tribes. The program aims to enhance public health and environmental quality while supporting communities in achieving reliable water services. This initiative is vital for households and businesses in underserved regions.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Waste Management

Private Grants for Nonprofits Highlights

Private grants for nonprofits provide funding from foundations, corporations, and individual donors to support programs and operations. The following grants empower organizations to achieve their missions, scale their impact, and address critical community needs effectively.


Search Instrumentl's Private Grants Database


Discover 8,000+ funding opportunities for nonprofits, with $3.43B available. Instrumentl connects nonprofits to tailored grants from private funders, offering tools for tracking deadlines, customized searches, and insights to maximize impact.

Grant Insights : Private Grants for Nonprofits

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Quite common — grants in this category are more prevalent than in others.

8,000+ Private grants for nonprofits grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

3,000+ Private grants for nonprofits over $25K in average grant size

3,000+ Private grants for nonprofits over $50K in average grant size

1,000+ Private grants for nonprofits supporting general operating expenses

7,000+ Private grants for nonprofits supporting programs / projects

2,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Community Development & Revitalization

3,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Education

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Private grants for Nonprofits?

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
29.8%
Q2
23.8%
Q3
23.9%
Q4
22.6%

Typical Funding Amounts

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

Grants are most commonly $34,887.

$0 $0 Min.
$34,887 $34.9 K Median
$655,609 $655.6 K Average
$188,250,000 $188.3 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

Nonprofits working in education, healthcare, arts, social services, and the environment may be eligible for private grants. To be considered, organizations need to align with the mission and values of the donor or foundation offering the grant. Funders look for nonprofits that have strong evidence of making a positive impact on their communities and match their values.

Based on Instrumentl’s live grant database for private grants, grant deadlines are most common in Q1, accounting for 29.8% of all submission dates. The slowest period for new grant opportunities in this category falls in Q4, making it a less competitive time for preparation and strategic planning.

The goal of private grants is for individual donors and foundations to support nonprofits who align with their goals. Some grants support specific projects, while others provide general operating funds to help organizations maintain stability and grow. Funders want to back creative projects with positive impact, ensuring their long-term success.

Funding for private grants varies widely, with award amounts ranging from a minimum of $0 to a maximum of $188,250,000. Based on Instrumentl’s data, the median grant amount for this category is $34,887, while the average grant awarded is $655,609. Understanding these funding trends can help nonprofits set realistic expectations when applying.

Private grants usually come from independent foundations, family foundations, corporate foundations, and individual donors. Well-known funders include the Ford Foundation, Rockefeller Foundation, and Walton Family Foundation, which support a wide range of causes. Some private grants come from smaller, locally focused foundations. Individual donors, including wealthy philanthropists, also fund private grants to causes they are passionate about.

To improve the chances of being awarded private grants, nonprofits should:

  • Research funders carefully – Get to know private funders by learning about their mission, past grant recipients, and funding priorities.
  • Be clear about your goals and expected results – Outline measurable outcomes, how the funds will be used, and what you hope to achieve. Having a history of success can also make your application more convincing.
  • Show financial responsibility – Prove you have good money management and a plan for long-term financial sustainability beyond the grant.
  • Build connections – Meet with grantmakers through networking events, email introductions, or funder Q&As.

Want to improve your private grant prospecting strategy? Master the process with our guide to private grant research.

Instrumentl simplifies the process of applying for private grants by offering an intuitive platform that helps nonprofits discover relevant funding opportunities, track deadlines, and analyze funder-giving patterns. The platform's automated alerts ensure users never miss a deadline, while detailed funder insights help organizations tailor their applications to align with grantor priorities.

Streamline your grant management process with our workflow automation tools.