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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

The Dr. Norbert P. and Elsie R. Fraga 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.

The Dr. Norbert P. and Elsie R. Fraga Scholarship

The Dr. Norbert P. and Elsie R. Fraga Scholarship Fund provides scholarships to postgraduate students who have: 1. graduated from New Bedford, Dartmouth, Fairhaven, or Westport High school, or Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School, 2. completed pre-dental or pre-medical studies at accredited college, 3. has an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 and 4. been accepted into an accredited dental or medical college or university. 

Education - Higher Education Medical Education & Professional Training

Robert J. Gaw Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation of Howard County
Private
Howard County, Maryland
US $1,000
The Robert J. Gaw Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Howard County, provides a $1,000 award to a deserving senior attending a Howard County public high school. This scholarship aims to support students pursuing their dreams and higher education, whether at a college, university, or trade school. Candidates must maintain a minimum unweighted GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate commitment to their academic and career aspirations.
Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Golden Apple Scholars Program in Michigan

Golden Apple Foundation of New Mexico
Private
Michigan
Up to US $15,000
The Golden Apple Scholars Program in Michigan offers aspiring educators the chance to excel in teaching within Pre-K-12 schools. Participants can receive up to $15,000 for professional development, mentorship, and job placement assistance. Eligibility includes high school seniors and college freshmen or sophomores. Scholars must maintain a 2.5 GPA, participate in training, and commit to teaching for five years in a Michigan school-of-need after graduation, fostering a new generation of committed educators.
Education - K through 12 Teacher Development & Training

Performing Arts Grant Program

City of Glendale, AZ
State/Local Government
Maricopa County, Arizona
Up to US $4,000
The City of Glendale, AZ is proud to present the Annual Performing Arts Grant Program, designed to support local artists and organizations. This competitive funding opportunity offers grants of up to $4,000 for public performances and projects that engage the community. All funded events must be free and accessible to the public, promoting inclusion and diversity in the arts. This initiative aims to enrich Glendale's cultural landscape and encourage artistic expression.
Performing Arts Public / Community Art

Mary Ann Levant Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation of Howard County
Private
Howard County, Maryland
US $1,000
The Mary Ann Levant Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Howard County, provides $750 to a senior student from Marriotts Ridge High School. This scholarship honors Mary Ann Levant, a devoted educator who significantly contributed to the Howard County Public School System. Eligible applicants must plan to attend a college or trade school, showcasing their academic promise and commitment to further education.
Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Karen and Howard Carolan Scholarship

Community Foundation of Howard County
Private
Howard County, Maryland
US $1,000
The Karen and Howard Carolan Scholarship, provided by the Community Foundation of Howard County, offers a $1,000 award to a deserving high school senior from Howard County. Eligible applicants must have participated in the Howard County Youth Program and plan to attend a college or trade school. This scholarship aims to support students who show exceptional promise and contribute to the community's future.
Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Scholarships: Dietetic Technician 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 a variety of scholarships for students in the Dietetic Technician Program, with over 250 scholarships available. Ranging from $500 to $25,000, these scholarships help support aspiring dietetic professionals. Applicants need to complete a single application to be considered for multiple scholarships based on eligibility. Membership in the Academy is encouraged but not mandatory for applying.
Nutrition & Healthy Eating

The Pincus Fund For Hunger Relief Grants

The Pincus Fund For Hunger Relief
Private
Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Burlington County, New Jersey +7 more
US $1,000
The Pincus Fund for Hunger Relief, established in 1983, aims to alleviate hunger in the Philadelphia area. It provides bi-annual grants of $1,000 to local organizations within a 50-mile radius, focusing on food pantries, meal programs, and urban farms. The fund supports initiatives that enhance food access, including storage and transportation needs. Applications are accepted in March/April and November, with a commitment to strengthening existing community programs.
Food Access & Hunger

Warren A. Morrow Memorial Scholarship

Veridian Credit Union
Private
United States
US $1,000 - US $3,000
The Warren A. Morrow Memorial Scholarship, offered by Veridian Credit Union, supports high school seniors and post-high school students pursuing post-secondary education at accredited institutions. To qualify, applicants must be members in good standing at a credit union affiliated with the Iowa Credit Union League. This scholarship aims to foster financial success and educational advancement, ensuring that students can achieve their academic goals without financial barriers.
Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Veridian Credit Union Scholarship

Veridian Credit Union
Private
United States
US $2,500
The Veridian Credit Union Scholarship offers four $2,500 awards to high school seniors and four $2,500 awards to post-secondary students enrolled in accredited programs. To qualify, applicants must be the primary owner of a Veridian Credit Union account in good standing. This initiative, managed by the Iowa Credit Union Foundation, supports educational advancement and aims to foster financial success among its members.
Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Grey Muzzle Grants

Grey Muzzle Organization
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Grey Muzzle Organization offers grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 to improve the lives of at-risk senior dogs across the U.S. Since 2008, they have awarded over $2.5 million to shelters and nonprofits focused on senior dog welfare. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations and demonstrate measurable outcomes. The initiative aims to ensure that every senior dog thrives, providing support for foster care, hospice services, and adoption programs.
Veterinary Science & Services Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Rare Disease Endpoint Advancement Pilot Program

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Association (ALS)
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Rare Disease Endpoint Advancement Pilot Program, initiated by the FDA, aims to enhance the development of novel efficacy endpoints for drugs addressing rare diseases. This initiative encourages collaboration between sponsors and the FDA throughout the endpoint development process. By fostering innovation through guidance and public workshops, the program seeks to equip FDA staff and improve evaluation methods for rare disease therapies. The pilot program is set to run until September 30, 2027, providing vital support for drug development in this area.
Rare Diseases

Women’s Impact Fund Grant

Suffolk Foundation
Private
Franklin County, Virginia, Isle of Wight County, Virginia +1 more
Unspecified amount
The Women’s Impact Fund Grant aims to enhance the lives of women and children in Suffolk and Western Tidewater by fostering long-term positive change. This initiative supports established non-profits and mandates measurable outcomes to demonstrate its effectiveness. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit entities with at least two years of operation, ensuring funds are exclusively used for designated programs and accountable reporting is provided within specified intervals.
Women & Girl Services Child Welfare Services

Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP)

Arizona Department of Homeland Security
State/Local Government
Arizona
US $100,000 - US $300,000
The Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) in Arizona allocates funding to nonprofit organizations at high risk of terrorist attacks or hate crimes. Established by state law, it offers up to $1 million over fiscal years 2024-2028, with a maximum of $100,000 available per organization each year. This initiative aims to enhance safety through target hardening and security improvements, supporting nonprofits vulnerable due to their beliefs or mission.
Cybersecurity Domestic / Homeland Security

J.J. Crosetti, Jr. Memorial Scholarship

Agri-Culture
Private
United States
US $1,500
The J.J. Crosetti, Jr. Memorial Scholarship offers a $1,500 award to students majoring in agriculture. To qualify, applicants must either reside in Santa Cruz County or be members of the Santa Cruz County Farm Bureau. The scholarship is awarded upon proof of college enrollment, making it an excellent opportunity for aspiring agricultural professionals to receive financial support for their education.
Academic Scholarship Programs Agriculture

Rural Business Development Grants in Ohio

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Ohio
US $10,000 - US $500,000
The Rural Business Development Grants in Ohio aim to support small rural businesses through technical assistance and training. Eligible businesses, defined as having fewer than 50 employees and less than $1 million in revenue, can apply for grants with no maximum limit, although smaller requests receive priority. Fund usage includes project planning, equipment acquisition, and business training, helping foster economic development in rural communities.
Rural Development

Kansas Association of Independent Crop Consultants Scholarship Fund

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Alabama, Arkansas +19 more
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.

Kansas Association of Independent Crop Consultants Scholarship Fund

The Kansas Association of Independent Crop Consultants created this scholarship fund to award to a qualified individual majoring in an agricultural field.

Education - Higher Education Agriculture

Rural Business Development Grants in North Dakota

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
North Dakota
US $10,000 - US $500,000
The Rural Business Development Grants in North Dakota aim to provide essential technical assistance and training to small rural businesses, defined as those with fewer than 50 employees and under $1 million in revenue. Funding is prioritized for smaller requests, with two grant types available: Opportunity and Enterprise. These grants support various projects, from training and technical assistance to community and technology-based economic development, ultimately fostering growth in rural areas.
Rural Development

Rural Business Development Grants in New York

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
New York
US $10,000 - US $500,000
The Rural Business Development Grants in New York aim to support small rural businesses by providing technical assistance and training. With no maximum grant amount, priority is given to smaller requests. Funded projects can include training, land acquisition, and community development, among others. Eligible areas include rural regions outside urban centers with populations of 50,000 or more. This initiative, funded by USDA Rural Development, fosters economic growth and sustainability in underserved communities.
Rural Development

Rural Business Development Grants in New Jersey

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
New Jersey
US $10,000 - US $500,000
The Rural Business Development Grants in New Jersey aim to enhance economic development and create jobs through financial support for eligible entities. Grants are available in two categories: Opportunity grants, which prioritize smaller requests, and Enterprise grants, designed for projects benefiting small and emerging businesses in rural areas. These grants can be utilized for various purposes, including training, land acquisition, pollution control, and community development, fostering sustainable growth in rural communities.
Rural Development

Rural Business Development Grants in New Hampshire

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
New Hampshire, Vermont
Up to US $200,000
The Rural Business Development Grants in New Hampshire aim to support small rural businesses by providing technical assistance and training. While there is no maximum grant amount, applications from the Northeast Kingdom are capped at $200,000, and other regions at $50,000. The funds can be used for various projects including training, market research, and community development. This initiative is crucial for fostering economic growth in rural areas, ensuring sustainable business practices and enhancing local economies.
Rural Development

Laura Brown Memorial Scholarship

Agri-Culture
Private
United States
US $4,000
The Laura Brown Memorial Scholarship offers a $4,000 award to students pursuing degrees in agriculture or culinary arts. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of at least 3.5 and reside in Santa Cruz County or Pajaro Valley. The scholarship is awarded upon proof of college enrollment and can be distributed over a maximum of four years. Preference is given to students who have participated in 4-H programs, supporting their educational journey in these fields.
Agriculture Academic Scholarship Programs Culinary Arts

Rural Business Development Grants in Nevada

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Nevada
Unspecified amount
The Rural Business Development Grants in Nevada aim to foster economic growth and job creation in rural areas by providing financial assistance to eligible entities. The program offers two types of grants: Opportunity grants for community projects and Enterprise grants for small business support. While there is no maximum grant amount, smaller requests are prioritized. The funds can be utilized for various purposes, including training, infrastructure development, and strategic planning, contributing significantly to rural development.
Rural Development

Rural Business Development Grants in Montana

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Montana
US $10,000 - US $500,000
The Rural Business Development Grants in Montana provide essential technical assistance and training for small rural businesses with fewer than 50 workers and under $1 million in revenue. Grants support various projects aimed at enhancing rural economies, including training, infrastructure development, and business planning. While there is no maximum grant amount, smaller requests receive priority, and funds can be allocated for community and technology-based economic development, ensuring sustainable growth in rural areas.
Rural Development

Rural Business Development Grants in Tennessee

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Tennessee
US $10,000 - US $500,000
The Rural Business Development Grants in Tennessee aim to support small rural businesses by providing essential technical assistance and training. With no maximum grant amount, priority is given to smaller requests, which can be used for various projects like training, land development, and community economic development. Eligible applicants include rural public entities and nonprofits, focusing on enhancing economic opportunities in rural areas. This program helps foster growth and sustainability for small businesses, benefiting the local economy.
Rural Development

Rural Business Development Grants in South Dakota

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
South Dakota
US $10,000 - US $500,000
The Rural Business Development Grants in South Dakota provide vital technical assistance and training to small rural businesses with fewer than 50 employees and under $1 million in gross revenue. The program prioritizes smaller funding requests and offers two types of grants—Opportunity and Enterprise. Funds can support a variety of projects including training, land acquisition, pollution control, and community economic development, thereby fostering growth in rural areas and enhancing local economies.
Rural Development

Magistro Family Foundation Research Grant

Foundation for Physical Therapy Research
Private
United States
Up to US $250,000
The Magistro Family Foundation Research Grant, offered by the Foundation for Physical Therapy Research, aims to enhance health through physical therapy research. With a commitment to funding innovative projects, this grant provides $200,000 for one or two years to support emerging and established researchers. The foundation focuses on addressing health disparities and advancing evidence-based practices in physical therapy, ultimately improving the quality of life for diverse communities.
Physical Therapy

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.