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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

Christian Missionary Scholarship Foundation Grant

Christian Missionary Scholarship Foundation
Private
Cook County, Illinois, DuPage County, Illinois +3 more
Unspecified amount
The Christian Missionary Scholarship Foundation Grant supports children of missionaries who have made financial sacrifices to serve the Lord. Founded in 1992, it aids over 100 missionary kids annually in pursuing undergraduate degrees at select Christian colleges. Scholarships are renewable for four years if students maintain full-time enrollment and good academic standing. This initiative not only helps alleviate financial burdens but also honors the commitment of missionary families in their educational pursuits.
Education - Higher Education Christianity

Genevieve Edmee Lenz Guldner Kansas University Medical Center Scholarship

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Kansas, Missouri
Unspecified amount

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.

Genevieve Edmee Lenz Guldner Kansas University Medical Center Scholarship

The purpose of the fund shall be to provide scholarships to Kansas University Medical Center (“KUMC”) students.

 Renewable for 4 years if all requirements are met.

Education - Higher Education Medical Education & Professional Training

New Jersey Commission on Spinal Cord Research: Individual Research Grant

State of New Jersey Department of Health
State/Local Government
New Jersey
Up to US $600,000
The New Jersey Commission on Spinal Cord Research offers Individual Research Grants to foster innovative research aimed at developing interventions and cures for paralysis caused by spinal cord injuries. With funding up to $200,000 annually, the program encourages independent investigators and established scientists from other fields to contribute to spinal cord research. The initiative aims to support collaborative efforts and nurture upcoming researchers, ultimately advancing the knowledge and treatment of spinal cord conditions.
Spinal Cord Injuries

Aquatic Facilities Grant (WA)

King County Parks
State/Local Government
King County, Washington
US $150,000 - US $5,000,000
The Aquatic Facilities Grant (WA) aims to enhance public access to aquatic facilities in King County as demand grows. This program supports renovations, expansions, or new constructions of public pools. Eligible applicants include cities, school districts, and public entities. Projects may involve accessibility improvements, feasibility studies, and diverse programming for all ages. With awards of up to $5 million, the grant fosters community engagement and supports vital aquatic resources for residents.
Swimming

Hear 2 help Scholarship Fund

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Kansas, Missouri
US $1,000

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.

Hear 2 help Scholarship Fund

The purpose of this scholarship is to provide opportunity for a Kansas or Missouri high school graduating senior who is Deaf/hard of hearing to further their education at either a 2 or 4 year college/university or technical program and reach their full potential.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Scholarships: Undergraduate 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 undergraduate students pursuing dietetics. Applicants complete a single application to be considered for multiple scholarships ranging from $500 to $25,000. Eligibility includes enrollment in an ACEND-accredited program and various special criteria. This initiative supports students from diverse backgrounds, encouraging future professionals in nutrition and dietetics. Membership in the Academy is recommended but not mandatory for application.
Nutrition & Healthy Eating

Anishinabe Fund Grant

Boreal Waters Community Foundation
Private
Aitkin County, Minnesota, Ashland County, Wisconsin +8 more
US $5,000 - US $10,000
The Anishinabe Fund Grant, offered by the Boreal Waters Community Foundation, aims to promote Anishinabe knowledge and culture in community improvement projects. It prioritizes collaborations that respect Anishinabe traditions and encourages co-funding initiatives. Eligible applicants must be charitable organizations located in specific counties of Wisconsin and Minnesota, ensuring that funding supports local communities while honoring Anishinabe heritage.
Native American Culture & Heritage

DCCF Teacher Grants

Decatur County Community Foundation Inc.
Private
Decatur County, Indiana
Up to US $500
The DCCF Teacher Grants provide financial support of up to $500 for innovative classroom projects in Decatur County. These grants aim to empower teachers to implement creative ideas that cannot be covered by traditional funding sources, such as school budgets. The Decatur County Community Foundation is dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities and fostering impactful initiatives in the community. This program exemplifies their commitment to supporting educators and improving the overall learning environment.
Teacher Development & Training Academic Success & Enrichment

Hispanic Development Fund (Current College Students)

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Cass County, Missouri, Clay County, Missouri +4 more
Approximately US $1,000

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.

Hispanic Development Fund (Current College Students)

For more than 40 years, the Hispanic Development Fund Scholarship Program has encouraged Hispanic/Latinx youth to attend college and accomplish their personal goals by awarding more than 6,539 scholarships totaling over $10 million to Kansas City-area students.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Central Mesabi Fund for Human Services

Boreal Waters Community Foundation
Private
Itasca County, Minnesota, St. Louis County, Minnesota
US $2,000 - US $10,000
The Central Mesabi Fund for Human Services, managed by the Boreal Waters Community Foundation, provides grants between $2,000 and $10,000 to agencies aiding low-income individuals in specific Minnesota communities. Eligible organizations include nonprofits, governmental entities, and schools that demonstrate financial need and programmatic merit. However, grants for equipment or capital improvements are typically excluded. This initiative aims to support essential services to enhance community welfare.
Basic Human Needs Health Care Access & Delivery

Wheelchair Tennis Grassroots Grant

United States Tennis Association Incorporated
Corporate
United States
Up to US $5,000
The USTA Wheelchair Tennis Grassroots Grant supports the growth of wheelchair tennis nationwide, having invested over $650,000 since 2008. This funding aims to enhance grassroots programs, focusing on attracting new junior players. Grants are tailored to each program's budget and needs, facilitating essential resources such as coaching, court time, and equipment. However, applications for tournament travel or multiple wheelchair purchases are discouraged, ensuring funds are used effectively to develop the sport for young athletes.
Tennis

First International Nutritionist/Dietitian (FIND) Fellowship for Study in the USA

Academy Of Nutrition And Dietetics Foundation
Private
United States
US $2,500
The First International Nutritionist/Dietitian (FIND) Fellowship supports foreign nationals pursuing postgraduate studies in the USA, with a clear plan to return to their home country. Offered by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation, this fellowship is part of a broader awards program that recognizes achievements and provides stipends to dietetic professionals and students. Applications are accepted annually, with award numbers varying based on funding and investment activities.
Nutrition & Healthy Eating

Medical Student Travel Award

College Of American Pathologists Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $1,200
The Medical Student Travel Award aims to support medical students interested in pathology by providing up to $1,200 for travel expenses to the CAP Annual Meeting in Las Vegas (October 3-6, 2026). This award facilitates valuable learning experiences through networking opportunities and insights into the pathology field, enhancing the awardees' understanding of residency training and the role of pathologists in healthcare.
Medical Education & Professional Training Diseases & Conditions

Montana Beef Council Project Funding

Montana Beef Council
Association/Society
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Montana Beef Council Project Funding supports innovative ideas for beef promotion, research, and education. Established in 1954, the Council aims to enhance demand for beef products through various marketing programs. Annual funding requests are reviewed by a board of directors, with applicants encouraged to engage with staff for optimal presentation preparation. While funding is not guaranteed for subsequent years, applicants can present their projects to relevant committees, ensuring a thorough evaluation process.
Livestock & Ranching

​Boating Facility Grant Program

Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission
State/Local Government
Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Boating Facility Grant Program, established by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC), aims to enhance public boating facilities across the Commonwealth. This initiative supports the planning, acquisition, development, and rehabilitation of these facilities, ensuring that recreational boaters in Pennsylvania have access to high-quality amenities. By investing in such projects, PFBC fosters a vibrant boating community and promotes recreational opportunities on the state's waterways.
Recreational Water Use & Boating

North Carolina Parks and Recreation Trust Fund (PARTF)

North Carolina State Parks
State/Local Government
North Carolina
Up to US $500,000
The North Carolina Parks and Recreation Trust Fund (PARTF) provides matching grants up to $500,000 to local governments for the development and improvement of parks and public beach access. Since its inception in 1994, PARTF has been instrumental in enhancing community quality of life by supporting local park initiatives. Eligible applicants include counties, municipalities, and public authorities, with a focus on ensuring facilities are dedicated for public recreational use for at least 25 years.
Parks & Public Spaces Outdoor Recreation

ARVO Foundation Collaborative Research Fellowship

The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology
Private
Afghanistan, Albania +135 more
Up to US $10,000
The ARVO Foundation Collaborative Research Fellowship, established by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, aims to enhance ophthalmic research through international collaborations. This fellowship supports partnerships between researchers from developing countries and established scientists, fostering innovative research projects. Up to three fellowships of $10,000 each will be awarded annually for one-year projects, promoting scientific training and resource sharing. Eligible applicants include those who have completed their terminal degrees within the last ten years.
Eye Diseases & Disorders

VCTF: Turrell Fund S. Whitney Landon Award

Vermont Children's Trust Foundation
Private
Vermont
Up to US $5,000
The Vermont Children’s Trust Foundation is offering the S. Whitney Landon Award to support organizations and individuals serving children aged birth to five and their families. With a total of $30,000 available, grants of up to $5,000 will be awarded to programs demonstrating innovative practices in early childhood care. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and home-based childcare programs, especially those collaborating with community partners to enhance their impact.
Early Childhood Development Education - Preschool / Early Learning

$250 Teacher's Grants

South Central Community Foundation
Private
Barber County, Kansas, Comanche County, Kansas +5 more
US $250
The $250 Teacher's Grants, offered by the South Central Community Foundation, support K-12 classroom teachers across seven counties. This grant provides $250 for classroom needs, requiring a budget of at least $250 with any additional costs covered by the school. Teachers may apply for only one grant, helping enhance educational resources and foster learning opportunities in local communities.
Education - K through 12 Academic Success & Enrichment

Canaan Foundation Grants

Canaan Foundation
Private
Litchfield County, Connecticut
US $250 - US $2,000
The Canaan Foundation, established in 2000, provides annual grants ranging from $20,000 to $30,000 to support nonprofit organizations in North Canaan. With over $540,000 distributed to date, the foundation focuses on community programs in education, environment, recreation, arts, health, and social services. Applications are reviewed annually, with funding decisions made by the Board in March, ensuring that grants are utilized within the same calendar year.
Art & Culture Education Recreation +1 more

Mabel and Allan Mackenzie Scholarship

Oregon Community Foundation
Private
Oregon
Unspecified amount
The Mabel and Allan Mackenzie Scholarship supports Black or African American student athletes from Deschutes County attending community college in Oregon. This scholarship is aimed at those who demonstrate academic or vocational potential but face financial challenges in covering their college costs. Awards vary, and students must reapply annually, with the possibility of renewal for up to two years, making it a valuable opportunity for deserving students.
Black American Services

Jacobs Family New Bedford High School Scholarship

Southcoast Community Foundation
Private
Massachusetts
Up to US $35,000

About Us

As a tax-exempt, public charity, the SouthCoast Community Foundation offers donors the guidance and flexibility to fulfill their philanthropic goals. We serve a range of charitable individuals, families, and corporations whose main concern is improving the quality of life in our community.

The SouthCoast Community Foundation allocates individual, family, and corporate funds to meet community needs. To date, the organization has distributed over $60 million from more than 200 funds to humanitarian, educational, and cultural organizations in the region.

Scholarship Resources

The SouthCoast Community Foundation is proud to offer scholarship opportunities to students in our community. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with more than $800k awarded to local students each year.

Most SouthCoast Community Foundation scholarships are available through our online scholarship portal. Unless otherwise noted, scholarships are available through the Universal Application, which automatically pairs eligible students with all available scholarships.

Jacobs Family New Bedford High School Scholarship

The Jacobs Family New Bedford High School Scholarship Fund of the SouthCoast Community Foundation provides 5 four-year scholarships, up to $35,000. The Scholarships are distributed to graduating seniors from: New Bedford Global Learning Charter School (1), New Bedford High School (3), Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School (1). Recipients must attend an accredited college or university and major in science fields including computer science, mathematics, and engineering.

Education - Higher Education Engineering Computer Science & Engineering +1 more

New Bedford Half Marathon Committee Scholarship

Southcoast Community Foundation
Private
Massachusetts
Unspecified amount

About Us

As a tax-exempt, public charity, the SouthCoast Community Foundation offers donors the guidance and flexibility to fulfill their philanthropic goals. We serve a range of charitable individuals, families, and corporations whose main concern is improving the quality of life in our community.

The SouthCoast Community Foundation allocates individual, family, and corporate funds to meet community needs. To date, the organization has distributed over $60 million from more than 200 funds to humanitarian, educational, and cultural organizations in the region.

Scholarship Resources

The SouthCoast Community Foundation is proud to offer scholarship opportunities to students in our community. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with more than $800k awarded to local students each year.

Most SouthCoast Community Foundation scholarships are available through our online scholarship portal. Unless otherwise noted, scholarships are available through the Universal Application, which automatically pairs eligible students with all available scholarships.

New Bedford Half Marathon Committee Scholarship

The New Bedford Half Marathon Committee Fund of the SouthCoast Community Foundation was established to provide college scholarships to graduating seniors who are runners participating in track, cross country or a related interscholastic athletic program from New Bedford High School, Dartmouth High School, or Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School.

Education - Higher Education Sports & Athletics

Margaret Wiegand Trust Grant

Margaret Wiegand Trust
Private
Waukesha County, Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Margaret Wiegand Trust Grant supports blind residents in Waukesha County, Wisconsin. This private foundation, managed by JPMorgan, exclusively funds 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Individuals are not eligible to apply for these grants. For more information and to find the application, please search for the grant name using the provided foundation finder link.
Vision Impairment Care & Services

Generation Regen Challenge: Presented by BMO

One Young World
Private
Canada, United States
Up to US $200,000
The Generation Regen Challenge, presented by BMO, aims to promote regenerative agriculture in Canada and the U.S. by providing $200,000 to innovative social enterprises and non-profits. This initiative seeks to enhance local farming practices, soil health, animal welfare, and biodiversity, while ensuring food security for underserved communities. By supporting projects that restore ecosystems and sequester carbon, the challenge encourages a sustainable agricultural future. Applications are open to eligible organizations focused on impactful solutions in their communities.
Sustainable Agriculture & Agroecology

Wilbon H. and Mary J. Pulliam Scholarship

Community Foundation of Howard County
Private
Howard County, Maryland
US $1,000
The Wilbon H. and Mary J. Pulliam Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Howard County, awards $1,000 to a deserving senior student from Howard County High Schools. This scholarship aims to honor the memory of Wilbon H. and Mary J. Pulliam, supporting students who plan to attend a college or trade school in Maryland and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher. It's an opportunity for local students to further their education and achieve their academic goals.
Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

George K. Tallman Trust Grant

George K Tallman Trust
Private
Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The George K. Tallman Trust Grant supports charitable, public, religious, humane, scientific, literary, and educational purposes. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations meeting the 501(c)(3) criteria. The grant favors projects in education, religious services, human and social services, and arts and culture. Note that individuals cannot submit applications. For further information, please search for the grant using the foundation finder provided by JPMorgan.
Art & Culture Education Religion & Spirituality +1 more

Private Grants for Nonprofits Highlights

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


Search Instrumentl's Private Grants Database


Discover 8,000+ funding opportunities for nonprofits, with $3.34B available. Instrumentl connects nonprofits to tailored grants from private funders, offering tools for tracking deadlines, customized searches, and insights to maximize impact.

Last updated: November 2, 2026. Next update: December 6, 2026.

Grant Insights : Private Grants for Nonprofits

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

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

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

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

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

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

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

2,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Community Services

600+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Poverty Alleviation & Services

Grant Deadline Distribution

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

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
29.7%
Q2
24.7%
Q3
23.5%
Q4
22.1%

Typical Funding Amounts

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

Grants are most commonly $32,500.

$0 $0 Min.
$32,500 $32.5 K Median
$633,837 $633.8 K Average
$188,250,000 $188.3 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

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

Based on Instrumentl’s live grant database for private grants, grant deadlines are most common in Q1, accounting for 29.7% of all submission dates. The slowest period for new grant opportunities in this category falls in Q4, making it a less competitive time for preparation and strategic planning.

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

Funding for private grants varies widely, with award amounts ranging from a minimum of $0 to a maximum of $188,250,000. Based on Instrumentl’s data, the median grant amount for this category is $32,500, while the average grant awarded is $633,837. Understanding these funding trends can help nonprofits set realistic expectations when applying.

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

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

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

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

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

Streamline your grant management process with our workflow automation tools.