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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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Filters

32,629 Results based on applied filters

Stop Trafficking on the Plains' Grants

Greater Grand Island Community Foundation
Private
Adams County, Nebraska, Hamilton County, Nebraska +2 more
Up to US $5,000
The Stop Trafficking on the Plains Fund, managed by the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation, aims to address unmet charitable needs to combat trafficking primarily in Hall County. Grants of up to $5,000 are available to eligible 501(c)(3) organizations and governmental agencies. Initiatives focus on education, justice, and support for victims. Applications are accepted year-round, with quarterly reviews, encouraging community collaboration and sustainability in addressing trafficking issues.
Human Trafficking

Tourism Event Growth & Sustainability (TEGS) Program - Event Marketing & Promotion - EMP

New Mexico Tourism Department
State/Local Government
New Mexico
Up to US $15,000
The Tourism Event Growth & Sustainability (TEGS) Program offers marketing and technical assistance to boost tourism events in New Mexico. Through the Event Cooperative Marketing initiative, events can secure up to $15,000 in funding with a 2:1 matching investment. Marketing efforts should focus on areas outside New Mexico, with specific advertising guidelines to enhance visibility and reach. Applicants must demonstrate an online presence to qualify for funding.
Tourism

Georgeann Cowles Eiskamp Memorial Scholarship

Agri-Culture
Private
United States
US $2,000
The Georgeann Cowles Eiskamp Memorial Scholarship offers a $2,000 award to a female student who has graduated from a high school within the PVUSD boundaries. Eligible candidates must be majoring in an agriculture-related field and have completed at least two semesters of college. Preference is given to those who have participated in 4-H or FFA or have relevant internships. The scholarship is awarded upon proof of college enrollment.
Agriculture Academic Scholarship Programs

NJCCR: Research Bridge Grant

State of New Jersey Department of Health
State/Local Government
New Jersey
Up to US $200,000
The NJCCR Bridge Cancer Research Grants aim to support innovative cancer research projects in New Jersey with funding up to $200,000 for two years. Targeted at dedicated researchers facing temporary funding gaps, these grants promote advancements in cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. Eligible applicants must hold full-time faculty positions. The NJCCR plays a crucial role in enhancing cancer research and addressing health disparities within the state.
Cancer / Oncology

Emergency Educational Grants

Elks National Foundation Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Emergency Educational Grants offer vital financial support of up to $5,000 for undergraduate students who are children of deceased or totally disabled Elks. This grant is renewable for one year and is intended solely for educational purposes, helping cover costs such as tuition and books. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain full-time enrollment in an accredited U.S. college or university, while being unmarried and under 24 years old during the application year.
Education - Higher Education Academic Success & Enrichment

Albany County Convention and Visitors Bureau Fund

The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region
Private
Albany County, New York
US $1,000 - US $5,000
The Albany County Convention and Visitors Bureau Fund supports tourism-related activities in Albany County, New York. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, it aims to enhance the hospitality industry by funding programs that develop tourism attractions and events. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and projects that positively impact tourism infrastructure. The fund encourages collaboration and innovative ideas that can increase hotel stays and overall visitor engagement in the region.
Tourism

Lawrence M. Brass, Md, Clinical Research Training Scholarship In Stroke

American Academy Of Neurology Institute
Private
United States
US $150,000
The Lawrence M. Brass, MD Clinical Research Training Scholarship in Stroke supports early career investigators focused on stroke and neurocritical care research. This award offers $65,000 annually for two years and an additional $10,000 yearly for educational costs, totaling $150,000. Eligibility requires applicants to be AAN members with MD, PhD, or equivalent degrees, and research must be conducted in accredited non-profit institutions in the U.S. Applications are assessed on research quality, innovation, and significance.
Neurological Diseases & Disorders

ASF: After School Grants

American Savings Foundation
Corporate
Hartford County, Connecticut, New Haven County, Connecticut
Unspecified amount
The American Savings Foundation offers After School Grants aimed at supporting high-quality after-school programs for children and youth, particularly in New Britain and Waterbury. The Foundation prioritizes educational, human services, and arts programs that demonstrate measurable impact. Eligible organizations must be IRS 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and provide programs that engage at-risk youth. The Foundation encourages collaboration and requires regular attendance reporting to ensure program effectiveness.
After School / Summer Educational Programs

NCP Open Road Fund

Nexus Community Partners
Private
Minnesota, North Dakota +1 more
Approximately US $50,000
The NCP Open Road Fund is a transformative initiative aimed at empowering Black individuals in Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota by providing $50 million in grants. This fund focuses on fostering financial well-being, economic power, education, housing, and health. By supporting projects that enhance wealth creation and community healing, the fund aims to create sustainable pathways for Black families and individuals to thrive and build intergenerational wealth.
Black American Services

Engaging Young Catholics Grants

Catholic Extension
Association/Society
Acadia Parish, Louisiana, Accomack County, Virginia +994 more
Unspecified amount
The Engaging Young Catholics Grants aim to support ministries that provide faith formation to children, teens, young adults, and families. By focusing on the pastoral needs of young Catholics, the program enhances community vibrancy and fosters new leadership within the church. Catholic Extension prioritizes operational support and seed funding for initiatives that develop youth and young adult ministries, ensuring that dioceses can effectively reach and engage younger generations in their faith.
Catholicism

Carol T. Berner Women in STEM Scholarship Fund

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Missouri
US $5,000

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.

Carol T. Berner Women in STEM Scholarship Fund

The purpose of this fund is to encourage women in Missouri to be active and succeed in science, technology, engineering, and math.

Carol T. Berner M.D. was a believer in music, art, and equality. Since very young, she was consistently being dissuaded from her goals. By the time she was accepted to Medical school at Saint Louis University, she was one of the only females in her class. She was unceasing in her care for her patient’s, family, and friends. Her belief in equality extended to them all.

Students are able to reapply each year.

Education - Higher Education STEM / STEAM Education

Rural Business Development Grants in Hawaii

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Rural Business Development Grants in Hawaii and the Western Pacific aim to support small rural businesses with technical assistance and training. These grants are designed for businesses with fewer than 50 employees and under $1 million in revenue, focusing on projects that benefit rural areas outside urban centers. Eligible applicants include public entities and nonprofit organizations, with funding prioritizing smaller requests, ensuring impactful community economic development.
Rural Development

Access Fund: Climbing Conservation Grant

Access Fund
Private
United States
US $1,000 - US $4,000
The Access Fund's Climbing Conservation Grant supports projects that enhance climbing access and conserve the climbing environment across the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $4,000, with larger requests considered for projects of national significance. Emphasizing local collaboration and measurable outcomes, this program seeks action-oriented initiatives that promote climber responsibility and community engagement, while also adhering to environmental regulations and securing necessary approvals.
Climbing & Mountaineering

Foley Equipment Scholarship Fund

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Kansas, Missouri
Up to 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.

Foley Equipment Scholarship Fund

This scholarship is established to support mechanically-inclined high school students seeking a technical college or post-secondary degree focused on a career in heavy equipment, diesel, and/or electric power generation.

Preference will be given to women and minorities. This scholarship is renewable for up to 2 years as long as the student remains eligible.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Student Conference at the United States Military Academy at West Point (SCUSA)

Weatherhead Center for International Affairs at Harvard University
Association/Society
Orange County, New York
Unspecified amount
The Student Conference at the United States Military Academy at West Point (SCUSA) is a premier event for Harvard undergraduates to engage in discussions on US foreign and domestic policy. Scheduled for October 2-5, 2024, the conference focuses on 'Securing the Blessings of Liberty' in a multipolar world. Participants will collaborate in roundtables to explore key issues and present their findings. The Weatherhead Center will sponsor one student, covering fees and transportation.
International / Foreign Affairs Public Policy

Rural Business Development Grants in Kentucky

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Kentucky
US $10,000 - US $500,000
The Rural Business Development Grants in Kentucky 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 gross revenue. Funding is prioritized for smaller requests, and grants must support projects that benefit rural communities outside urban areas. Eligible recipients include public entities, nonprofit corporations, and institutions of higher education, among others, focusing on fostering economic development and job training.
Rural Development

Rural Business Development Grants in Louisiana

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Louisiana
US $10,000 - US $500,000
The Rural Business Development Grants in Louisiana aim to support small rural businesses through technical assistance and training. Eligible projects must benefit rural areas, with a focus on those outside urbanized regions. The program prioritizes smaller funding requests with no maximum grant limit, allowing for diverse uses including training, land acquisition, and community development. This initiative is open to various rural public entities, fostering economic growth and sustainability in Louisiana's rural communities.
Rural Development

Rural Business Development Grants in Maine

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Maine
US $10,000 - US $500,000
The Rural Business Development Grants in Maine aim to support small rural businesses by providing technical assistance and training. Eligible areas include rural towns and communities outside urbanized regions. Grants can be used for a variety of purposes such as training, land development, and community economic development. While there is no maximum grant amount, smaller requests receive priority, with two types of projects available: Opportunity grants and Enterprise grants.
Rural Development

Rural Business Development Grants in Maryland

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Maryland
US $10,000 - US $500,000
The Rural Business Development Grants in Maryland aim to support small rural businesses through technical assistance and training. Eligible projects serve rural areas with populations under 50,000. Grants have no maximum limit; however, smaller requests receive priority. Funding types include Opportunity and Enterprise grants, focusing on community and economic development, feasibility studies, and training initiatives to foster growth in rural areas.
Rural Development

Rural Business Development Grants in Massachusetts

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Massachusetts
US $10,000 - US $500,000
The Rural Business Development Grants in Massachusetts aim to support small rural businesses by providing essential technical assistance and training. These grants prioritize projects that benefit rural areas and offer funding without a maximum limit, although smaller requests are favored. Eligible applicants include rural public entities and nonprofit organizations. Funds can be used for a variety of purposes, such as business planning, training, and community development, fostering economic growth in underserved regions.
Rural Development

Rural Business Development Grants in Michigan

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Michigan
US $10,000 - US $500,000
The Rural Business Development Grants program in Michigan aims to support small rural businesses with technical assistance and training. Eligible projects must benefit rural areas, focusing on entities with fewer than 50 employees and under $1 million in revenue. Grants can be used for various purposes, including business development and feasibility studies, without a maximum amount, although smaller requests are prioritized. This initiative fosters local economic growth and enhances community sustainability.
Rural Development

Arts Education Project Support

Tennessee Arts Commission
State/Local Government
Tennessee
US $12,000 - US $25,000
The Arts Education Project Support grant from the Tennessee Arts Commission aims to enhance arts education by funding hands-on projects that foster creativity and learning among Tennesseans. This competitive grant supports initiatives led by professional artists or instructors, focusing on measurable outcomes in community-based arts learning, educator training, and youth programs. Projects must start after July 1, 2026, and conclude by June 15, 2027, with specific application guidelines to ensure clarity and focus.
Teacher Development & Training Art Education

Rural Business Development Grants in Minnesota

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Minnesota
US $100,000 - US $500,000
The Rural Business Development Grants in Minnesota aim to provide essential technical assistance and training for small rural businesses with fewer than 50 new workers and under $1 million in gross revenue. Funding is available for projects benefiting rural areas, focusing on enhancing economic development, offering training, and supporting community initiatives. With no maximum grant amount, priority is given to smaller funding requests, encouraging innovative projects that uplift rural economies.
Rural Development

Rural Business Development Grants in Mississippi

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Mississippi
US $10,000 - US $500,000
The Rural Business Development Grants in Mississippi aim to support small rural businesses by providing technical assistance and training. This program prioritizes smaller funding requests, with no maximum limit on grant amounts. Funds can be used for various purposes including training, land acquisition, pollution control, and community development. Eligible applicants include rural public entities and nonprofit corporations, ensuring that the grants effectively enhance economic opportunities in rural areas.
Rural Development

Rural Business Development Grants in Missouri

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Missouri
US $10,000 - US $500,000
The Rural Business Development Grants in Missouri support small rural businesses by providing technical assistance and training. Eligible projects benefit rural areas outside urban centers with populations over 50,000. Funding is prioritized for smaller requests, with no maximum grant amount. Grants can be utilized for various purposes, including training, land development, pollution control, and community economic development. This program aims to foster growth and sustainability in rural economies.
Rural Development

Henry, Trina, Laurianna Wash Family 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.

Henry, Trina, Laurianna Wash Family Scholarship Fund

The purpose of this scholarship fund is to allow African American young men who have graduated from the High Asperations program to get scholarships for 2 or 4 year colleges and/or vocational/trade schools.

This scholarship is named after the foundation family of High Aspirations. The scholarship is named after them for their tireless work they have done in the Kansas City community through High Aspirations, Inc. since 2003.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Rural Business Development Grants in South Carolina

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
South Carolina
US $10,000 - US $500,000
The Rural Business Development Grants in South Carolina aim to provide technical assistance and training for small rural businesses, defined as those with fewer than 50 workers and less than $1 million in revenue. While there is no maximum grant amount, smaller requests are prioritized. Grant funds can be used for various projects, including training, land acquisition, pollution control, and community development, benefiting rural areas and enhancing economic growth.
Rural Development

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.