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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

R3 Grant Program

Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission
State/Local Government
Pennsylvania
Up to US $25,000
The R3 Grant Program, managed by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, offers up to $25,000 in funding to support initiatives that enhance fishing and boating education. This program aims to engage diverse audiences and promote environmental justice by facilitating hands-on experiences. Eligible projects must demonstrate innovation and a commitment to reaching underrepresented communities, ultimately fostering a greater appreciation for outdoor activities among all demographics.
Sport Fishing Outdoor Equity

Mission Program Grants: New Worshiping Communities Seed Grant

Presbyterian Mission Agency
Private
Puerto Rico, United States
Up to US $10,000
The Mission Program Grants: New Worshiping Communities Seed Grant offers up to $10,000 to support the establishment of new worshiping communities connected to the Presbyterian Church (USA). These grants focus on covering initial operational costs for the first year, including salaries and educational materials. Eligible applicants must be newly formed communities established after July 2010, located in the U.S. or Puerto Rico. This initiative fosters community growth rather than expanding existing congregations.
Presbyterianism

American Truck Historical Scholarship Fund

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Kansas, Missouri
Up to US $3,000

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

American Truck Historical Scholarship Fund

The American Truck Historical Society’s George Schroyer Memorial Scholarship Fund provides two (2) annual scholarships, and the Cummins Scholarship provides one (1) scholarship to graduating high school seniors or undergraduates who intend to further their education at a two-year or four-year accredited U.S. college or university or vocational/technical school that have certification programs.

Financial need, community service, and extracurricular activities will also be taken into consideration. Applicants must be family members (child, stepchild, or grandchild) of current members in good standing for 2 years of the American Truck Historical Society. Preference for all scholarships will be given to applicants pursuing positions in the trucking or transportation industry.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Republic Services: Community Grant Program

Republic Services Charitable Foundation
Corporate
Puerto Rico, United States
Unspecified amount
The Republic Services Community Grant Program supports local nonprofit organizations focused on neighborhood revitalization, safety, disaster relief, and social services. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations can apply once annually through an online application process. The program emphasizes a non-discrimination policy, ensuring services are provided without bias. However, funding is not available for individuals, government entities, schools, or religious organizations. This initiative reflects Republic Services' commitment to community engagement and support.
Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid Community / Public Safety Human & Social Services

Fund for Excellence in Education Grants

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley
Private
Dutchess County, New York, Putnam County, New York +1 more
Up to US $2,500
The Fund for Excellence in Education Grants provides funding opportunities for classroom teachers in Dutchess, Putnam, and Ulster Counties. It supports special projects and professional development that enhance classroom learning and educational outcomes. Grants are available for various initiatives, including writing and STEM programs. Eligible applicants include all K-12 teachers in licensed and certified schools across these counties, ensuring a broad impact on educational quality.
Education - K through 12 Teacher Development & Training

Donaghue Foundation: Another Look Grant

Patrick and Catherine Weldon Donaghue Medical Research Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Donaghue Foundation's Another Look Grant focuses on enhancing health and well-being for older adults in long-term care facilities. It prioritizes research that utilizes existing datasets and includes stakeholders to inform project development. High-priority topics include improving palliative care, workforce innovations, and addressing disparities in care quality. This program is open to PhD investigators from tax-exempt institutions in the U.S., aiming to foster impactful health-related research that enhances care quality for seniors.
Residential Care & Nursing Homes

American Truck Historical Society: The Louis Semple Clarke Educational Fund

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Kansas, Missouri
Up to US $3,000

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

American Truck Historical Society: Louis Semple Clarke Educational Fund

The American Truck Historical Society’s Louis Semple Clarke Educational Fund scholarship provides one (1) annual scholarship to graduating high school seniors or undergraduates who intend to further their education at a two-year or four-year accredited U.S. college or university or vocational/technical school that have certification programs.

Financial need, community service, and extracurricular activities will also be taken into consideration. Applicants are restricted to Autocar Company employees and family members (child, stepchild, or grandchild). Preference for all scholarships will be given to applicants pursuing positions in the trucking or transportation industry.

Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis and disbursed in equal payments.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

The Jan and Frank Cicero Fellowship

The Newberry Library
Association/Society
Cook County, Illinois
US $3,000
The Jan and Frank Cicero Fellowship supports artists in the visual and performing arts for one month, providing a stipend of $3,000. Applications are due by January 3, 2025, with a grace period for recommendation letters until January 13, 2025. This fellowship is an opportunity to enhance artistic practice using the Newberry collection, open to scholars at the ABD stage and beyond. Eligible applicants include artists and performers from various disciplines.
Performing Arts Visual Arts

Hattie Hannah Keeney Grant

Hattie Hannah Keeney
Private
Grand Traverse County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Hattie Hannah Keeney Grant provides essential support for disabled children in the Traverse City, Michigan area. This grant aims to assist in their aid and relief, ensuring that families receive the necessary resources and help. For more information about applying for this grant, please visit the foundation finder. This initiative reflects a commitment to improving the lives of children in need.
Children With Disabilities

The Webutuck Quest for Excellence Fund Grant

The Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation
Private
Dutchess County, New York
US $500 - US $1,500
The Webutuck Quest for Excellence Fund Grant is aimed at fostering academic achievement and creativity within the Webutuck Central School District. It supports projects that encourage high expectations, student initiative, and a love of learning. Eligible projects include independent studies, extracurricular activities, and professional development for teachers. The grant is open to proposals from educators and community members, emphasizing quality and impact over quantity, ensuring a lasting effect on the educational environment.
Academic Success & Enrichment Teacher Development & Training

Prosperity Planning Scholarship

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Missouri
Up to US $4,000

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Prosperity Planning Scholarship

The Prosperity Planning Scholarship fund was established to provide academic scholarships to graduating seniors attending a Northland School District who have demonstrated a strong work ethic both inside and outside the classroom.

Scholarship is renewable for a total of 4 years providing that student maintains a cumulative GPA of 2.5 while in college and continues to demonstrate strong work ethic and have no disciplinary actions.

Scholarship will be used for tuition, books, course related fees, as well as on-campus housing expense.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Ruth & Lyle Taylor Endowment Fund Grant

Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville
Private
Madison County, Alabama
US $2,500 - US $9,000
The Ruth & Lyle Taylor Endowment Fund Grant supports initiatives in historic preservation, environmental conservation, and civic engagement. Established by Lyle and Ruth Taylor, it funds organizations that educate about civic responsibilities and public participation. The grant cycles will alternate annually, focusing on environmental conservation in 2025, civic engagement in 2026, and historic preservation in 2027. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) charities, while programs such as debt reduction or political activities are excluded.
Environmental Conservation

Next Steps for Boston Dance Grant

Boston Foundation Inc
Private
Essex County, Massachusetts, Middlesex County, Massachusetts +3 more
More than US $12,500
The Next Steps for Boston Dance Grant aims to enhance the dance community in Greater Boston by offering vital support to choreographers and circus artists. This initiative provides $5,000 for rehearsal space, $6,000 in implementation funds, and expert consultations to foster original work in diverse dance genres. Additionally, it facilitates cohort meetings for collaboration and ongoing support beyond the grant period, ensuring artists can take crucial steps in their careers.
Dance

Rosedale Congregational Church Scholarship Fund

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Kansas
US $2,500

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Rosedale Congregational Church Scholarship Fund

This scholarship fund was created to assist students who live in the Rosedale and Argentine neighborhoods who are pursuing higher education at a community college, university or vocational/technical school.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

NJ Commission on Spinal Cord Research Exploratory Research Grant

State of New Jersey Department of Health
State/Local Government
New Jersey
Up to US $200,000
The New Jersey Commission on Spinal Cord Research offers the Exploratory Research Grant to support independent investigators in spinal cord research. This grant aims to facilitate innovative ideas and accelerate the development of treatments for spinal cord injuries. It provides up to $100,000 per year for two years, focusing on high-risk, high-reward projects that may lead to breakthroughs in the field. Collaborative and interdisciplinary proposals are encouraged to enhance research outcomes.
Spinal Cord Injuries

Animal Welfare Grants

Community Foundation of Sarasota County
Private
Charlotte County, Florida, DeSoto County, Florida +2 more
Up to US $25,000
The Animal Welfare Grants, offered by the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, provide funding up to $25,000 to organizations dedicated to the humane care of animals in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, and DeSoto Counties. This initiative aims to support emergency veterinary treatments and essential equipment purchases for clinics, ensuring that local animal welfare organizations can effectively address urgent medical needs and enhance their operational capabilities.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets Veterinary Science & Services

Collective Wellbeing: Food Security Grant Opportunity

Colorado Gives Foundation
Private
Jefferson County, Colorado
US $5,000 - US $25,000
The Collective Wellbeing: Food Security Grant Opportunity by Colorado Gives Foundation aims to enhance food access for residents of Jefferson County. This program supports nonprofits focused on increasing enrollment in public assistance programs, expanding food availability, and advocating for food access policies. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving Jeffco and demonstrate their impact in the community through concrete programs and metrics.
Food Access & Hunger

Soroptimist International of Kansas City Northland Healthcare Scholarship

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Missouri
Up to US $4,000

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Soroptimist International of Kansas City Northland Healthcare Scholarship

The Soroptimist International of Kansas City Northland Healthcare Scholarship provides an annual scholarship for a young woman going into her first year in a healthcare field.

The scholarship will be paid directly to the college or university that the scholarship recipient attends in installments of $500.00 for each semester upon meeting renewal criteria.

The scholarship is renewable for up to a total of four (4) years if the student remains enrolled in an accredited college or university and in a designated healthcare program, upon meeting renewal criteria and continuation in the healthcare field.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Delta Dental of Missouri: Community Donation Program

Delta Dental of MIssouri
Private
Missouri, South Carolina
Up to US $5,000
Delta Dental of Missouri's Community Donation Program aims to enhance community health through charitable contributions, focusing on organizations that serve Missouri and South Carolina. Preference is given to those with an oral health component. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) registered, address the needs of at-risk populations, and be represented by an authorized member for support requests. This initiative underlines Delta Dental's commitment to community well-being and support.
Health Care Access & Delivery Dental Health

Virginia Whitsitt Memorial Scholarship

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Missouri
US $2,000

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Virginia Whitsitt Memorial Scholarship

The Virginia Whitsitt Memorial Scholarship Fund program provides annual scholarships to graduating seniors in honor of Helen Virginia Whitsitt. Scholarship awards are focused on students interested in pursuing a career in teaching and that demonstrate financial need. If qualified applicants are not available, the scholarship may be awarded to teachers who have returned to school for their master’s degree in education.

One scholarship will be awarded annually and disbursed in equal payments in July and January. Recipients must continue to be enrolled full-time and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or above the previous semester to be eligible for the second payment. Scholarship awards are non-renewable.

Education - Higher Education Teacher Development & Training

Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) Grants

Virginia Department of Forestry
State/Local Government
Virginia
Unspecified amount
The Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) Grants, administered by the Virginia Department of Forestry, provide crucial funding to support rural volunteer fire departments. These grants offer a 50% reimbursement for the purchase of personal protective equipment, tools, and equipment, ensuring effective wildfire suppression in Virginia. With a matching fund requirement, departments must invest in approved items to access reimbursement, fostering community engagement and resource allocation for fire safety.
Firefighting & Fire Prevention

Easton Legacy Fund Grant

Southcoast Community Foundation
Private
Bristol County, Massachusetts
Up to US $3,500
The Easton Legacy Fund Grant, managed by the SouthCoast Community Foundation, aims to enhance the quality of life in Easton, MA. Established to support nonprofit initiatives, it prioritizes projects that promote arts, culture, recreation, and local history. Eligible organizations must serve the Easton community, have 501(c)(3) status, and can request grants up to $3,500. This fund advocates for philanthropic endeavors that foster community engagement and well-being.
Art & Culture Recreation Community Culture & Heritage

WNDB: Walter Dean Myers Grant Program

We Need Diverse Books
Private
United States
US $2,000
The Walter Dean Myers Grant Program, established by We Need Diverse Books, offers $2,000 grants to promising unpublished diverse writers and illustrators. Aimed at enhancing their craft and supporting traditional publication pursuits, this initiative has awarded over 70 grants since 2015, resulting in nearly 60 published books and numerous literary accolades. Applicants must identify as diverse and be U.S. residents, working towards a career in children's literature.
Writing & Literature Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Donald N. Tweedy Trust Grant

Donald N. Tweedy Trust
Private
Fairfield County, Connecticut
Up to US $40,000
The Donald N. Tweedy Trust Grant supports community organizations in Danbury, Connecticut, that focus on music. This grant aims to assist local entities where Danbury residents actively participate in musical performances. Nonprofit organizations meeting IRS 501(c)(3) criteria are eligible to apply, while individuals are not permitted to submit applications. For further details about the grant, please visit the foundation finder.
Music

The Andrew Lloyd Webber Initiative: University Scholarships

American Theatre Wing Inc
Private
United States
Up to US $10,000
The Andrew Lloyd Webber Initiative: University Scholarships, by the American Theatre Wing, supports high school seniors from underrepresented backgrounds with a $10,000 annual scholarship for four years. This initiative addresses financial barriers for students pursuing theatre disciplines, including performance, design, and administration. Scholars are matched with mentors and gain exclusive opportunities such as master classes. This program aims to cultivate a diverse future in theatre, ensuring that talent is nurtured and accessible to all.
Theater

Mary P. Gill Charitable Trust Grant

Mary P. Gill Charitable Trust
Private
Jefferson County, Kentucky
Unspecified amount
The Mary P. Gill Charitable Trust Grant supports charitable organizations in Louisville, KY, focusing on essential areas such as Animal Welfare, Education, Health and Medical Research, and Human and Social Services. This grant aims to enhance community well-being through targeted funding initiatives that address pressing local needs. For more information about the grant program, please visit the foundation finder link provided.
Animal Welfare - General Education Health & Medicine +1 more

SJICF: Resiliency Grant

San Juan Island Community Foundation
Private
San Juan County, Washington
Unspecified amount
The San Juan Island Community Foundation's Emergency Response Fund offers crucial support for 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations facing urgent needs in health and human services due to crises. Established in 1994, SJICF aims to enhance community life through grantmaking and resources for local nonprofits, prioritizing assistance for vulnerable populations. By fostering philanthropy and addressing pressing community issues, SJICF plays a vital role in sustaining a thriving San Juan Island community.
Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid Human & Social Services Health & Medicine

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.