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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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32,565 Results based on applied filters

K-12 Education Grants

Idaho National Laboratory (INL)
State/Local Government
Idaho
US $2,000
The K-12 Education Grants offered by Idaho National Laboratory aim to enhance STEM education in Idaho. These grants support innovative, student-centered projects to improve learning experiences in the classroom. With a maximum award of $2,000, the funding can be utilized for project materials and equipment, fostering a strong foundation for the future STEM workforce. INL's initiative encourages teachers and administrators to create impactful educational opportunities that inspire students and promote engagement in science and technology.
Education - K through 12 STEM / STEAM Education

Young Investigators Research Forum

American Academy Of Sleep Medicine Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Young Investigators Research Forum offers a unique opportunity for early career sleep scientists to enhance their research skills. Funded by the AASM Foundation, this program provides travel scholarships for participants to attend the 2025 forum in Bethesda, MD. Participants will engage with senior investigators, learn about funding mechanisms, and refine their research proposals. This forum is designed to build a supportive network, fostering collaborations and mentorship in the field of sleep and circadian research.
Sleep Medical Education & Professional Training

The 3M Skilled Trades Scholarship

SKILLED Nation
Association/Society
United States
US $5,000
The 3M Skilled Trades Scholarship, funded by the SkillPointe Foundation, supports students pursuing careers in high-demand fields such as carpentry, construction management, and welding. It aims to address the skills gap by providing funding for vocational education, helping individuals gain essential skills for the workforce. Eligible applicants include those enrolled in postsecondary training programs, with scholarships to be used within a year of acceptance. This initiative seeks to empower workers and meet the needs of employers.
Vocational & Trade Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Nebraska

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Nebraska
Up to US $1,000,000
The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Nebraska support communities in crisis, providing essential funding to restore access to safe drinking water. Eligible applicants include local governments, nonprofits, and tribes facing emergencies like droughts, floods, or chemical spills. Grants can fund waterline construction and treatment facilities, with amounts up to $1 million available. This initiative aims to enhance public health and environmental sustainability, fostering resilience in rural areas affected by disasters.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Reading is Fundamental Matching Grant - Books for Ownership

Reading Is Fundamental Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Reading is Fundamental Matching Grant - Books for Ownership program supports local literacy initiatives by providing funding for diverse books and literacy resources. Established in 1966, RIF aims to foster a culture of literacy among children in under-resourced communities. Eligible organizations can apply for funding to double their impact through matched funds, ensuring children have access to high-quality books that reflect their experiences and broaden their perspectives.
Literacy Youth Services

World Affairs Council of San Antonio Scholarship Fund

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
Bexar County, Texas
Unspecified amount
The World Affairs Council of San Antonio Scholarship Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, offers financial support for students pursuing degrees in International Studies. This scholarship is available to full-time students from Bexar County, including high school seniors and current college students. With a focus on fostering education and community development, it aims to empower the next generation of leaders with the resources needed to succeed in their academic endeavors.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Reading is Fundamental Matching Grant - Read for Success

Reading Is Fundamental Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Reading is Fundamental Matching Grant for Read for Success empowers local organizations to enhance literacy by providing matching funds for books and resources. Since 1966, RIF has partnered with communities to foster a culture of reading among children in need, offering diverse books that reflect their lives. This grant matches local investments dollar-for-dollar, maximizing the impact of funding for educational programs. Eligible applicants include schools and youth-serving organizations across the U.S., supporting children from birth through grade 12.
Youth Services Literacy

Hoover Family Foundation Grant - Portland, OR

Hoover Family Foundation
Private
Multnomah County, Oregon
Unspecified amount
The Hoover Family Foundation Grant, established in 1992, supports non-profit organizations in Portland, Oregon, and Indianapolis, Indiana. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster self-sufficiency, provide effective social services, and improve educational opportunities. Grants are limited to organizations serving the Portland metropolitan area, adhering to geographic restrictions. Due to high demand and limited resources, only a small number of applications can be funded each year, emphasizing the need for complete and compliant submissions.
Education Poverty Alleviation & Services Human & Social Services

AVID: Orange County Centennial Scholarship Fund (Academic Awards)

Scholarship America Inc
Private
United States
US $2,000 - US $5,000
The AVID: Orange County Centennial Scholarship Fund offers financial assistance between $2,000 and $5,000 to eligible high school seniors in Orange County, CA, who are enrolled in the AVID elective. This scholarship program, administered by Scholarship America, encourages community involvement and leadership among applicants. To qualify, students must demonstrate academic excellence with a minimum GPA of 3.5 and show financial need. This one-time award supports those planning to pursue full-time undergraduate studies at accredited institutions.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

AVID: Orange County Centennial Scholarship Fund (Art Awards)

Scholarship America Inc
Private
United States
US $2,000 - US $5,000
The AVID: Orange County Centennial Scholarship Fund (Art Awards) supports high school seniors enrolled in the AVID elective, aiming to pursue a four-year college education. Funded by Scholarship America, this program offers awards ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 for undergraduate studies. Eligible applicants must demonstrate community involvement, leadership, and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. This scholarship is intended for students from Orange County, CA, pursuing degrees in various art disciplines.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Whataburger Family Foundation Scholarship Fund

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Whataburger Family Foundation Scholarship Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports individuals pursuing higher education. It is open to U.S. citizens or legal residents with a minimum 2.5 GPA, who are employed or have family ties to Whataburger employees. This scholarship is available for various fields of study and can be applied to both full-time and part-time enrollment in accredited institutions across the USA. It aims to enhance educational opportunities and community growth.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Vibrant Communities Mental Health Grant Program

St. Croix Valley Foundation
Private
Burnett County, Wisconsin, Chisago County, Minnesota +4 more
Unspecified amount
The Vibrant Communities Mental Health Grant Program, initiated by the St. Croix Valley Foundation, aims to enhance mental health support across its six-county service area. With over 50% of adults facing mental health issues, the program funds diverse initiatives ranging from prevention to management. Eligible organizations can receive grants between $500 and $10,000 to implement impactful programs that address mental health challenges and improve community well-being.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases

Local Trail Connections Program

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
State/Local Government
Minnesota
US $5,000 - US $250,000
The Local Trail Connections Program, funded by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, aims to enhance short trail connections between residential areas and key public resources. Grants of $5,000 to $250,000 are available, covering up to 75% of project costs. Eligible projects include trail development and acquisition, with a focus on public accessibility. Funding prioritizes significant connectivity and quality of trails, with a total budget of approximately $1.1 million from lottery proceeds.
Trail Creation & Maintenance

Walter and Hannelore Schwindt Trust

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Walter and Hannelore Schwindt Trust, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports students pursuing degrees in various scientific and technical fields. Eligible applicants include current high school seniors and college students from specific Texas counties, with a minimum GPA requirement. This renewable scholarship covers tuition and living expenses for full-time students, emphasizing academic excellence and commitment to fields such as astronomy, medical research, and biochemistry.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Community Endowment Fund- Solidarity Program- Reshaping Futures Grants

Charlottesville Area Community Foundation
Private
Albemarle County, Virginia, Buckingham County, Virginia +5 more
Up to US $500,000
The Community Endowment Fund's Solidarity Program offers Reshaping Futures Grants to support transformative racial equity initiatives in Charlottesville and surrounding counties. With grants of up to $500,000 over 1-5 years, the program emphasizes movement building led by Black and ALAANA communities. Applications open from July 1 to July 31, 2025, inviting organizations to submit Letters of Intent to collaborate on impactful solutions for justice and equity.
Racial / Ethnic Justice & Rights

AVID: Charles H. & Ethel E. Wolfe Scholarship Endowment

Scholarship America Inc
Private
United States
US $1,500 - US $2,500
The AVID: Charles H. & Ethel E. Wolfe Scholarship Endowment, managed by Scholarship America, supports high school seniors from Orange County, CA, enrolled in the AVID program. Eligible students must have strong academic records, community involvement, and plan to attend a four-year college. The scholarship awards between $1,500 and $2,500 for undergraduate studies, helping to ease the financial burden of pursuing higher education.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

AVID: Beatrice Levin Scholarship Fund

Scholarship America Inc
Private
United States
US $1,500 - US $7,500
The AVID: Beatrice Levin Scholarship Fund, managed by Scholarship America, supports high school seniors in Orange County, CA, who have participated in the AVID program for three years. This scholarship is for students who demonstrate community commitment, have a minimum 3.0 GPA, and show financial need. One common application is used for all AVID scholarships, with awards granted for undergraduate studies only. This program encourages continued education at accredited four-year institutions.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

AVID: Dad’s House Scholarship

Scholarship America Inc
Private
United States
US $3,000
The AVID: Dad's House Scholarship, administered by Scholarship America, supports high school seniors in Orange County who have participated in the AVID program for at least three years. With an estimated award of $3,000 for undergraduate studies, applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a GPA of 2.5. The scholarship encourages community commitment and aims to assist those planning to enroll full-time at accredited four-year institutions.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Community Health Partnerships (CHeP) Trailblazer Award

Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute (CTSI)
Association/Society
Indiana
Up to US $5,000
The Community Health Partnerships (CHeP) Trailblazer Award invites proposals for community-engaged research projects aiming to enhance health equity and address social determinants of health. With funding up to $25,000 over two years, the award supports collaborative efforts between university and community partners. Key focus areas include substance use, obesity prevention, and health disparities in rural areas. Projects should demonstrate sustainability and community engagement, ensuring all participants are committed to improving health outcomes in Indiana.
Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health

Community Health Partnerships (CHeP) Trailblazer Planning Grant

Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute (CTSI)
Association/Society
Indiana
Up to US $5,000
The Community Health Partnerships (CHeP) Trailblazer Planning Grant aims to foster community-university partnerships in Indiana to enhance health equity and address social determinants of health. This initiative will fund activities such as meetings and conferences that lead to collaborative research proposals. Awards of up to $5,000 support partnership growth and the development of future grant applications. Eligible applicants must include both university-based and community-based partners actively engaged in Indiana.
Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health

The Active Fund Grant

Kelly S Brush Foundation
Private
United States
Approximately US $3,500
The Active Fund Grant, offered by the Kelly Brush Foundation, supports individuals with paralysis from spinal cord injuries in acquiring adaptive sports equipment. This initiative aims to foster active lifestyles and inclusivity through sports. First-time applicants are prioritized for the Fall 2025 cycle, with grants averaging around $3,500, though they can vary. Eligible applicants can receive full or partial awards or a Try-It-First grant to gain experience with the equipment. For guidelines, please refer to the provided FAQs.
Spinal Cord Injuries

AVID: Syage Family Scholarship Fund

Scholarship America Inc
Private
United States
US $1,500 - US $7,500
The AVID: Syage Family Scholarship Fund aims to support high school seniors from Orange County, CA, who have been enrolled in the AVID elective class for at least three years. This scholarship, administered by Scholarship America, promotes educational advancement by offering financial assistance for undergraduate studies. Applicants must demonstrate community commitment, have a minimum GPA of 3.0, and show financial need, making this opportunity crucial for those seeking to further their education at four-year colleges.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Vikki Carr Scholarship Foundation

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Vikki Carr Scholarship Foundation, part of the San Antonio Area Foundation, offers financial assistance to high school seniors from Bexar County pursuing higher education. Students of Mexican-American descent, especially those who are bilingual, are given preference. This scholarship aims to empower youth by alleviating educational costs for various degrees, ensuring that students with financial need can continue their studies and contribute positively to the community.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Black Student Success Capacity Building Grants

The Oregon Community Foundation
Private
Oregon
Up to US $50,000
The Oregon Community Foundation offers the Black Student Success Capacity Building Grants to support Black-led organizations in Oregon. With a total funding of $720,000, these grants aim to enhance the operational capacity of these organizations, enabling them to better serve marginalized Black children and families. Eligible organizations can request up to $50,000 for projects focusing on education, community engagement, and culturally responsive programming, contributing to transformative change in the community.
Nonprofit Growth & Development Black American Services

Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship

Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation
Association/Society
United States
US $20,000
The Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship is an esteemed, achievement-based scholarship aimed at high school seniors committed to leadership and community service. Annually, 150 scholars receive $20,000 to support their college education. Since its inception, the program has awarded over $87 million in educational funding to more than 7,000 students. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, planning to attend an accredited college, and demonstrate strong community leadership and service.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Mary Elliott Wislar Memorial Scholarship

Princeton Area Community Foundation
Private
New Jersey
Unspecified amount
The Mary Elliott Wislar Memorial Scholarship, established by the Princeton Area Community Foundation, honors the legacy of Mary Wislar, an advocate for education and community engagement. This scholarship aims to support Mercer County residents pursuing higher education after demonstrating leadership in school and community activities. With a focus on enabling young individuals to achieve their educational goals, this scholarship reflects Mary's dedication to fostering learning opportunities for future generations.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

State Abstinence Until Marriage—Emerging Programs RFP

South Carolina Department of Education
State/Local Government
South Carolina
Up to US $100,000
The State Abstinence Until Marriage—Emerging Programs funding aims to support innovative programs that promote Sexual Risk Avoidance Education (SRAE). Designed for organizations not yet validated by evidence-based data, it encourages new outreach methods and activities in priority areas. Key criteria include a focus on local service area organizations and the use of consistent curriculum for no more than three years, ensuring unique approaches to abstinence education.
Reproductive Education

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.

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.