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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

Minchen-Beville Foundation Grant

Minchen-Beville Foundation
Private
Williamson County, Texas
Unspecified amount
The Minchen-Beville Foundation Grant supports charitable organizations in Georgetown, Texas, focusing on older adults. Key program areas include Arts and Culture, Civic Activities, Community Development, Education, Health and Medical Research, Human and Social Services, Religious, and Scientific initiatives. Organizations that align with these priorities are encouraged to apply for funding to enhance community welfare and engagement.
Senior Services Aging / Gerontology

Rauschenberg Medical Emergency Grants

New York Foundation for the Arts
Private
American Samoa, District of Columbia +6 more
Up to US $5,000
The Rauschenberg Medical Emergency Grants, administered by the New York Foundation for the Arts, provide one-time funding up to $5,000 for artists facing unexpected medical emergencies. This program aims to alleviate financial burdens caused by medical costs, ensuring that artists can receive necessary care without delay. Eligible applicants must be practicing artists in visual arts, film, or choreography, and demonstrate financial need. This initiative supports artists of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those outside major coastal cities.
Emergency Medical Care & Services

Petco Foundation: Disaster Relief Support

Petco Love
Corporate
United States
Unspecified amount
The Petco Foundation offers disaster relief support for animal welfare organizations affected by disasters. Eligible applicants include authorized members of IRS-designated 501c3 nonprofits, government agency representatives with operational insight, and invited for-profit entities focused on animal welfare. However, the foundation does not fund individuals, organizations outside the U.S., or those whose primary mission does not relate to animal welfare. This initiative aims to provide critical assistance during times of crisis.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid

Joe & Jessie Crump Foundation - Medical Research (Cancer) Grant

Joe & Jess Crump Foundation
Private
Texas
Unspecified amount
The Joe & Jessie Crump Foundation offers a grant focused on medical research in the field of cancer. This funding is exclusively available to charitable organizations recognized as 501(c)(3) entities under IRS regulations. Applications from individuals are not accepted. The foundation aims to support innovative research that can lead to significant advancements in cancer treatment and care, thereby contributing to the broader health and medical research landscape.
Cancer / Oncology

Ralph M. and Ella M. Eccles Foundation Grant

Ralph M. and Ella M. Eccles Foundation
Private
Clarion County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Ralph M. and Ella M. Eccles Foundation Grant supports community initiatives in Clarion County, focusing on projects that offer year-round programming and direct services. Eligible projects should address community needs, have measurable outcomes, and promote sustainability. The foundation emphasizes collaboration with other organizations and does not support general operating costs or new programming. Organizations must have at least three years of operation and provide evidence of prior impact to qualify for funding.
Health & Medicine Library Services Education - K through 12

NJ Health and Wellness Programs

New Jersey Department of State: Center for Hispanic Policy, Research and Development (CHPRD)
State/Local Government
New Jersey
Up to US $75,000
The NJ Health and Wellness Programs aim to enhance the well-being of families in crisis through mental health services and family violence prevention. Managed by the New Jersey Center for Hispanic Policy, Research, and Development, these programs focus on strengthening resilience, providing essential support, and connecting families with community resources. Applicants can seek funding from multiple categories including health and wellness initiatives, aiming to address domestic violence and mental health challenges effectively.
Hispanic and Latino Services

Cooperative Marketing Grant Program

New Jersey Department of State: Division of Travel and Tourism
State/Local Government
New Jersey
US $2,000 - US $25,000
The Cooperative Marketing Grant Program, managed by the New Jersey Department of State's Division of Travel and Tourism, aims to enhance tourism in New Jersey by funding marketing initiatives. Grants ranging from $2,000 to $25,000 support projects like brochure creation, event marketing, and comprehensive marketing plans. Eligible organizations must demonstrate a commitment to tourism and provide a 25% match from non-state sources. This program fosters economic growth and promotes New Jersey as a leading travel destination.
Tourism

Samuel K. and Lois T. Wolf Scholarship

Center for Scholarship Administration (CSA)
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

The Center for Scholarship Administration

The Center for Scholarship Administration (CSA) provides corporations, foundations, trust funds, and individual philanthropists scholarship selection and administration management that is experienced, professional, and cost efficient while lending the program an integrity not inherent in internal selection committees.

Samuel K. and Lois T. Wolf Scholarship

The Wolf, Samuel K. and Lois T. Scholarship is providing scholarships for deserving students. The Center for Scholarship Administration, Inc. (CSA), a non-profit, independent organization is the facilitator of the scholarship fund.

Recipients must attend Thomas Jefferson University in Pennsylvania. Recipients must be full-time and working towards a degree in the medical profession.

The institution must be an educational organization that normally maintains a regular faculty and curriculum and normally has a regularly enrolled body of pupils or students in attendance at the place where its educational activities are regularly conducted. To the extent the institution is involved in the selection of the recipients (if at all), that involvement must comply with the Scholarship Program`s policy of awarding scholarships on an objective and non-discriminatory basis as well as the Scholarship Program`s Conflict of Interest Policy.

This scholarship is for one year only; however, current recipients may reapply and be considered for additional funding along with other new applicants. Scholarship recipients must be enrolled full-time. Scholarship recipients are limited to four total years of scholarship award and are expected to have been enrolled consecutive years during that time.

Education - Higher Education Medical Education & Professional Training

Responsive Grant- Performing Arts

Cullen Foundation
Private
Erie County, New York
US $5,000 - US $125,000
The Cullen Foundation's Responsive Grant for Performing Arts aims to enhance the cultural landscape of Erie County by supporting local organizations focused on community performances in music, dance, and theatre. The foundation prioritizes applicants demonstrating fiscal health and sustainability, while providing funding ranging from $5,000 to $125,000 per year. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) entities and submit audited financials. This competitive grant process fosters impactful artistic initiatives that align with the foundation's mission.
Performing Arts Education - K through 12

Michael Spring Major Cultural Institutions (MCI) Grants Program

Miami-Dade Department of Cultural Affairs
State/Local Government
Miami-Dade County, Florida
Unspecified amount
The Michael Spring Major Cultural Institutions (MCI) Grants Program provides essential funding for fully professional cultural organizations in Miami-Dade County. Designed to support institutions with a proven track record of delivering high-quality programming, this program enhances community engagement and fosters artistic excellence. The MCI Grants aim to strengthen the local economy and cultural landscape, ensuring that diverse audiences benefit from outstanding cultural experiences year-round.
Museums & Cultural Institutions

DE Forest Legacy Program (FLP)

Delaware Forest Service
State/Local Government
Kent County, Delaware, New Castle County, Delaware +1 more
Unspecified amount
The DE Forest Legacy Program (FLP), funded by the U.S. Forest Service, aims to safeguard working forestlands from development through conservation easements or outright purchases. This initiative supports landowners in maintaining forest stewardship plans, ensuring sustainable forest management. With federal funding covering up to 75% of project costs, the program promotes collaboration among state, local, and private entities. Delaware's AON, approved in 1998, identifies key forest areas for protection, enhancing habitat, timber resources, and water quality.
Land / Habitat Conservation

Audience Access (AUD) Grant Program

Miami-Dade Department of Cultural Affairs
State/Local Government
Miami-Dade County, Florida
Up to US $5,000
The Audience Access (AUD) Grant Program, offered by the Miami-Dade Department of Cultural Affairs, promotes accessibility in the arts for individuals with disabilities. This initiative provides funding for services such as ASL interpreters, captioning, and accessible materials, ensuring that programs are inclusive for all audiences. The Department emphasizes collaboration with cultural organizations to enhance ADA compliance and outreach efforts, making cultural experiences available to everyone, regardless of ability.
Arts / Culture Access & Participation Disability Care & Services

Youth Arts Miami (YAM) Grants Program

Miami-Dade Department of Cultural Affairs
State/Local Government
Miami-Dade County, Florida
Up to US $160,000
The Youth Arts Miami Grants Program supports non-profit youth arts organizations in Miami-Dade County. It offers funding based on organization size, with specific revenue thresholds. Eligible organizations must demonstrate a commitment to youth arts programming and a history of public engagement. Categories include large, mid-sized, and small organizations, each with distinct financial requirements. All applicants must attend a pre-grant consultation prior to applying, ensuring preparedness for the application process.
Youth Involvement in the Arts

Gray Lady Foundation Grant

Gray Lady Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Gray Lady Foundation Grant aims to enhance canine health, particularly for Miniature Schnauzers, by funding research in genetics and diseases. Applications are accepted twice a year, with deadlines on April 1 and October 1, and grants are awarded on October 31 and April 30, respectively. The foundation is dedicated to supporting organizations that focus on improving the quality of life and responsible breeding of canines, ensuring sustainable health initiatives.
Veterinary Science & Services Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Debbie Callahan Arts Scholarship

Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

The Community Foundation proudly supports students in Portage and Waushara counties with over $325,000 in scholarships annually, thanks to the generosity of local individuals and families. Award amounts range from $500 to $40,000, opening doors to educational opportunities.

The Community Foundation provides scholarships for a wide range of students, including high school seniors, college students, non-traditional learners, and those pursuing specific fields of study.

Debbie Callahan Arts Scholarship

Must be attending an arts school or pursuing an arts major.

Education - Higher Education Art Education

SPC Scholarship Fund

The SPC Cares Foundation
Association/Society
South Carolina
US $1,000

The SPC Cares Foundation

The SPC Cares Foundation was established in 2024 as a way for SPC Credit Union to strategically support four key development issues identified within our community: Hunger, Housing, Employment, & Education. The Foundation supports our local communities through monetary donations, in-kind donation drives, and volunteerism.

SPC Scholarship Fund

SPC Scholarships are available to improve the lives of Members who want to further their education. Scholarship opportunities are available for high school students entering college, adults returning to college, and children of SPC CU employees and board members.

Applications are considered on both academic and needs-based criteria.

These funds are provided by SPC Credit Union in partnership with the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation.

Education - Higher Education Adult Education

Summer Arts & Science Camps for Kids (SAS-C) Grant Program

Miami-Dade Department of Cultural Affairs
State/Local Government
Miami-Dade County, Florida
Up to US $40,000
The Summer Arts & Science Camps for Kids (SAS-C) Grant Program, a collaboration between the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and The Children’s Trust, provides funding to nonprofit organizations to offer underserved children in Miami-Dade County access to high-quality cultural arts and science summer camps at minimal or no cost. The program aims to enhance participation, especially for children facing geographic, economic, or disability barriers, ensuring that more children can enjoy enriching summer experiences.
Summer Camps

SPC Cares Foundation's Member Hardship Fund

The SPC Cares Foundation
Association/Society
South Carolina
Up to US $1,500

The SPC Cares Foundation

The SPC Cares Foundation was established in 2024 as a way for SPC Credit Union to strategically support four key development issues identified within our community: Hunger, Housing, Employment, & Education. The Foundation supports our local communities through monetary donations, in-kind donation drives, and volunteerism.

Member Hardship Fund

SPC Cares Foundation's Member Hardship Fund provides financial assistance up to $1,500 in the form of a grant to Members who are experiencing financial hardship due to events beyond their control, including disasters, extended illnesses or injuries, and other special situations. The Member Hardship Fund does not aid with non-emergency situations or financial difficulties due to poor financial management, judgement, or negligence. Assistance for emergencies and crisis situations are considered on a case-by-case basis, and requested funding is not guaranteed.

This fund is intended to provide relief to SPC Members who are currently experiencing financial hardship. In accordance with the IRS, financial hardship must be demonstrated to receive grant funding and is understood to mean negative household income, meaning there is not enough income or limited to no savings to meet your required financial obligations. 

Basic Human Needs Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid

Kahler Foundation Grant

Kahler Foundation
Private
Michigan
US $1,000
The Kahler Foundation Grant supports innovative educational programs for K-12 students in Michigan. Aimed at enhancing the student experience, this grant focuses on unconventional learning opportunities that promote lifelong success. Eligible programs should demonstrate educational impact in areas like STEAM, Literacy, and Mental Health, and must be active in specific counties. Preference is given to middle school initiatives, fostering a broad range of enriching experiences for students.
Education - K through 12 Academic Success & Enrichment

SMIF Early Literacy Grant

Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation
Private
Blue Earth County, Minnesota, Brown County, Minnesota +18 more
Unspecified amount
The SMIF Early Literacy Grant, offered by the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation, aims to enhance school readiness for children from birth to eight years old by providing books. With over $1.5 million invested annually in early childhood development, the program fosters collaboration to ensure that children in 20 counties across south central and southeastern Minnesota have access to essential literacy resources. This initiative is vital for nurturing future leaders and promoting community vitality.
Literacy Early Childhood Development

Forensic Pathology Advanced Training Grant

College Of American Pathologists Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $5,000
The Forensic Pathology Advanced Training Grant, supported by the College of American Pathologists Foundation, aims to address the physician shortage in pathology by providing CAP Junior Members with a four-week rotation at an ACGME Accredited Forensic Fellowship Training Program. This initiative offers hands-on experience, mentorship, and training in forensic pathology, while funding up to $5,000 for eligible expenses. The program is open to all CAP Junior Members in accredited US residency programs who have completed their first year.
Medical Education & Professional Training Diseases & Conditions Forensics

Global Pathology Education Award

College Of American Pathologists Foundation
Private
Afghanistan, Albania +122 more
Unspecified amount
The Global Pathology Education Award, offered by the College Of American Pathologists Foundation, enhances global health by supporting pathologists in under-resourced areas. Awardees gain access to recorded education sessions from the CAP25 annual meeting, fostering knowledge exchange. Key eligibility criteria include residing in a WHO-designated medically underserved country and demonstrating financial need. This initiative not only provides valuable educational resources but also promotes professional development among international pathologists.
Medical Education & Professional Training Diseases & Conditions

SMIF Paint the Town Grants

Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation
Private
Blue Earth County, Minnesota, Brown County, Minnesota +18 more
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The SMIF Paint the Town Grants aim to foster community pride and collaboration by funding mural, welcome sign, or historic structure painting projects in communities with populations under 10,000. Administered by the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation in partnership with local Ace Hardware stores, these grants encourage volunteer participation and visual impact. Eligible projects must demonstrate public use and community engagement, ensuring that at least half of the painting work is conducted by volunteers.
Public / Community Art Greening & Beautification

The Katy Stone Memorial Fund

Long Beach Community Foundation
Private
Los Angeles County, California
Up to US $25,000
The Katy Stone Memorial Fund honors the legacy of Katy Stone, a beloved Long Beach resident and advocate for youth development. This fund supports 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, schools, and government institutions that offer programs promoting the physical, mental, and spiritual growth of individuals, especially young people. By nurturing talent and education, the fund aims to continue Katy's mission of inspiring and empowering the community, fostering a spirit of generosity and joy.
Wellness & Healthy Living Youth Services

EEFD Funding

European Endowment for Democracy
Private
Albania, Algeria +40 more
Up to €60,000
The European Endowment for Democracy (EED) funds civil society organizations, pro-democracy movements, and independent media to promote democracy in the European Neighbourhood and beyond. Established in 2013, EED supports those with limited access to funding, adapts to local contexts, and responds quickly to emergency requests. With a focus on various thematic areas such as anti-corruption, media independence, and civic participation, EED plays a vital role in fostering democratic values and human rights.
Art for Social Change Civic Affairs Social Justice / Human Rights +1 more

Scholarships: Dietetic Internship Program

Academy Of Nutrition And Dietetics Foundation
Private
Alabama, Colorado +27 more
US $500 - US $25,000
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for dietetic interns, allowing a single application to apply for multiple awards. Scholarships range from $500 to $25,000, with eligibility for interns enrolled through June 30, 2024, including those with off-cycle matches. Applicants should consider their career goals in areas like clinical dietetics, culinary arts, and nutrition education. Academy membership is encouraged but not required. Fundraising determines the number of scholarships available each year.
Nutrition & Healthy Eating

JWDDBF: Service Learning Program

Joe W & Dorothy Dorsett Brown Foundation
Private
Louisiana, Mississippi
Unspecified amount
The JWDDBF Service Learning Program, administered by the Joe W & Dorothy Dorsett Brown Foundation, supports K-12 schools in Louisiana and Mississippi. This initiative encourages students to engage with their communities through service learning projects that connect academic curriculum with real-world problems. By providing funding, the program enhances students' critical thinking, collaboration, and empathy while fostering positive relationships between schools and communities. The Principal’s Award also incentivizes schools to participate in these enriching experiences.
STEM / STEAM Education Education - K through 12

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.