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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

Princeton Post No. 76 American Legion, Dr. Henry J. Frank Scholarship

Princeton Area Community Foundation
Private
New Jersey
US $1,000
The Princeton Post No. 76 American Legion, Dr. Henry J. Frank Scholarship, established in 2005, supports students with ties to U.S. military veterans. Administered by the Princeton Area Community Foundation, this scholarship offers two awards annually for up to four years of undergraduate study at accredited institutions. Eligible applicants must be residents of Princeton, West Windsor, or Plainsboro and have a parent or grandparent who served in the Armed Forces. This initiative fosters educational opportunities for deserving students.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

The Lion Woodward Educational Fund of the Rotary Club of Trenton

Princeton Area Community Foundation
Private
New Jersey
Up to US $4,000
The Lion Woodward Educational Fund, established by the Trenton Rotary Club in 1928, supports high school students in Trenton and surrounding areas in achieving their educational goals. With a potential award of up to $16,000 over four years, candidates must maintain a minimum GPA and demonstrate community service, leadership, and financial need. Managed by the Princeton Area Community Foundation, this fund honors Lion L. Woodward's legacy of service and commitment to youth education.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Federal Recreational Trail Program

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
State/Local Government
Minnesota
US $2,500 - US $150,000
The Federal Recreational Trail Program, managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, aims to enhance motorized and non-motorized trails through financial support. Eligible projects include trail maintenance, development, and educational programs. A 25% match is required for funding requests ranging from $2,500 to $150,000, with completion deadlines set for June 30, 2025. This initiative prioritizes projects involving local partnerships and environmental sustainability.
Trail Creation & Maintenance

Hoover Family Foundation Grant - Indianapolis, IN

Hoover Family Foundation
Private
Marion County, Indiana
Unspecified amount
The Hoover Family Foundation, established in 1992, supports 501(c)(3) organizations in Indianapolis and Portland, focusing on self-sufficiency and quality of life improvements. With limited resources, the foundation prioritizes funding programs that enhance educational opportunities and provide effective social services to low-income individuals. Applications must be complete as incomplete submissions will not be considered, and the foundation does not accept faxes, emails, or video materials.
Education Poverty Alleviation & Services Human & Social Services

AASM Foundation Disaster Relief Fund

American Academy Of Sleep Medicine Foundation
Private
American Samoa, Canada +5 more
Unspecified amount
The AASM Foundation Disaster Relief Fund, established in 2005, provides essential financial aid to AASM accredited sleep centers impacted by natural disasters. By supporting these centers, the fund ensures that medical care remains accessible to patients during crises. Past funding has assisted centers after events like Hurricane Katrina and the 2010 Haiti earthquake, helping them recover and restore operations quickly. This initiative highlights the commitment to maintaining patient care in the face of adversity.
Sleep Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid

Riding for Focus Grants

Outride
Private
North America
Unspecified amount
The Riding for Focus Grants program supports public middle schools serving low-income students, providing them with bicycles, helmets, and educational resources to promote cycling. Through this program, schools can enhance their students' cognitive, physical, and socio-emotional well-being. The curriculum consists of 14 lessons focused on rider safety and skills, designed to be delivered over 6-8 weeks. Eligible schools can apply for grants or purchase the program to access these invaluable resources.
Biking

Dr. Frank N. Nelson Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Dr. Frank N. Nelson Scholarship at Montana State University supports students enrolled in the Pre-Veterinary Program or those planning to attend an accredited School of Veterinary Medicine. Eligible candidates must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.2 and demonstrate a commitment to the veterinary profession in Montana. This scholarship aims to foster future veterinarians who will contribute positively to the agricultural and health sectors in the state.
Education - Higher Education Veterinary Science & Services

Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in New Hampshire

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
New Hampshire
Up to US $1,000,000
The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in New Hampshire support eligible rural communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies that threaten safe drinking water availability. These grants, administered by USDA Rural Development, can fund water transmission lines and sources, addressing urgent needs due to disasters like droughts or floods. The program emphasizes partnerships among various entities and aims to restore access to clean water, enhancing community resilience and environmental health.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

AMA Foundation: Physicians of Tomorrow Scholarship

American Academy Of Sleep Medicine Foundation
Private
United States
US $10,000
The AMA Foundation's Physicians of Tomorrow Scholarship offers four $10,000 awards for medical students pursuing sleep medicine in 2025. Eligible applicants must be entering their final year, demonstrate financial need, and express interest in sleep medicine in their personal statement. This scholarship aims to support students dedicated to excellence in medical education and the advancement of sleep medicine as a vital field in healthcare.
Sleep Medical Education & Professional Training

Sleep Research Program for Advancing Careers Grant

American Academy Of Sleep Medicine Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Sleep Research Program for Advancing Careers, funded by the American Academy Of Sleep Medicine Foundation, aims to develop early-career sleep scientists through a structured grant writing curriculum. Participants receive mentorship and training to submit competitive federal career development grants, such as NIH K awards. The program includes lectures and grant review sessions, ensuring applicants complete their proposals successfully. Additionally, a travel scholarship is offered for in-person meetings, fostering collaboration and growth in sleep research.
Sleep Medical Education & Professional Training

Field of Interest- David Wiitanen and Slim McLean Memorial Youth Hockey Fund Grant

Keweenaw Community Foundation
Private
Houghton County, Michigan, Keweenaw County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The David Wiitanen and Slim McLean Memorial Youth Hockey Fund aims to promote youth ice hockey programs in the Copper Country region. Established in memory of Sheriff Slim McLean, the fund supports initiatives that enhance skills and opportunities for young players. Grants are awarded to nonprofits, schools, and municipalities for various purposes including facility maintenance, equipment assistance, and youth participation in tournaments, ensuring inclusivity and non-discrimination in its funding processes.
Hockey

Massachusetts Elks Scholarship

Massachusetts Elks Association (MEA)
Association/Society
Massachusetts
Unspecified amount
The Massachusetts Elks Scholarship provides financial assistance to deserving students pursuing a bachelor's degree at accredited colleges. Sponsored by the Massachusetts Elks Association, this program focuses on supporting candidates demonstrating financial need, academic merit, and strong citizenship. Eligible students must be graduates of accredited high schools and endorsed by a local Elks lodge. This scholarship aims to empower youth through education, ensuring no discrimination based on race or gender.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Arts, Culture, and Creative Enterprises- A Place to Perform Grants

Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta
Private
Cherokee County, Georgia, Clayton County, Georgia +9 more
Up to US $5,000
A Place to Perform Grants, offered by the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta, supports nonprofit literary and performing arts organizations in the Atlanta region. The initiative provides funding for access to performance venues, covering costs such as space rental and technician fees. This grant aims to expand venue options for organizations, rather than cover general operational expenses or artistic production costs. Eligible projects must focus solely on direct venue-related needs.
Performing Arts Writing & Literature

Excellence in Education Initiative Grants

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation
Private
Lincoln County, South Dakota, McCook County, South Dakota +2 more
Up to US $1,500
The Excellence in Education Initiative Grants aim to foster innovative teaching methods within the Sioux Falls area. These grants support creative classroom projects designed by educators, enhancing educational experiences for students. Eligible applicants include teachers from various educational backgrounds who implement projects that can be completed by the end of the school year. By investing in local educators, the initiative contributes to building a brighter future for the community.
Academic Success & Enrichment Education - K through 12

Elks National Foundation: Legacy Awards

Elks National Foundation Inc
Private
Panama, Philippines +2 more
US $4,000
The Elks National Foundation's Legacy Awards provide $4,000 scholarships for children and grandchildren of Elks members. Eligible applicants must be high school seniors and can apply online. The program supports educational pursuits at accredited U.S. institutions, ensuring that the legacy of community service and support continues. With criteria focusing on family connections to the Elks and a commitment to education, these awards promote opportunities for future generations to thrive and contribute to society.
Academic Scholarship Programs Education - Higher Education

Shimomura/OREF/International Society of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology (SICOT) Travel Awards

Orthopaedic Research and Education Foundation
Private
Serbia
US $1,500
The Shimomura/OREF/SICOT Travel Awards offer $1,500 to SICOT members for travel to the SICOT World Congress. Applicants must have SICOT membership and demonstrate a clear travel objective aligned with global research aims, focusing on health care policy or clinical outcomes. Eligible candidates include private practice surgeons and academic orthopaedic surgeons. Proposals must include a letter of reference and a brief CV. Priority is given to private practice surgeons and fellows.
Orthopedics Health Policy & Advocacy

ALCWF Grant Program

American Legion Child Well-being Foundation (CWF)
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation (CWF) offers grants to nonprofit organizations dedicated to enhancing the welfare of children across the United States. Established in 1954, CWF prioritizes projects that address the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs of youth. Grants are available annually from May 1st to July 15th, supporting initiatives that demonstrate a broad geographical impact. This foundation seeks to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children facing various challenges.
Child Welfare Services Youth Services

Women’s Shelters Grant (Domestic Violence Shelter Grant)

AKC Humane Fund Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Women’s Shelters Grant, provided by the AKC Humane Fund, offers financial assistance to domestic abuse shelters that accommodate pets. This grant aims to empower shelters to break the cycle of domestic violence by allowing women to keep their beloved pets during difficult times. By supporting organizations that facilitate this, the AKC Humane Fund fosters a community where both women and animals can find safety and solace together.
Domestic Violence

Youth In Philanthropy Grant Funding

Northern Piedmont Community Foundation
Private
Culpeper County, Virginia, Fauquier County, Virginia +2 more
Unspecified amount
The Youth in Philanthropy (YIP) program empowers local teenagers to engage in philanthropic activities by providing them with funding, mentorship, and hands-on experience in grant-making. Participants learn valuable leadership skills while addressing community issues such as homelessness and mental health. By collaborating with peers and adult mentors, students develop critical thinking and budgeting skills. Weekly meetings from mid-August to mid-October foster commitment and flexibility, allowing youth to take an active role in shaping their communities through informed decision-making.
Youth Development & Leadership

BCBS Illinois - Sponsorships

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL)
Corporate
Illinois
US $250 - US $5,000
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) offers sponsorships to organizations improving community health and wellness. These sponsorships range from $250 to $5,000, with higher amounts available for community-based health fairs. Organizations must apply at least two months prior to events and can only receive either a grant or sponsorship in a year. BCBSIL prioritizes support for initiatives directly benefiting Illinois residents, ensuring a healthier community for all.
Wellness & Healthy Living Community Health Education

Hans Korendyke Memorial Scholarship

Western Michigan University
Private
Kalamazoo County, Michigan
US $500
The Hans Korendyke Memorial Scholarship, offered by Western Michigan University, is a $500 award aimed at full-time junior or senior students in electrical or mechanical engineering with an interest in environmental design. This scholarship also provides an opportunity to apply for an internship at TowerPinkster. Students can apply by completing the scholarship application form on WMU's Scholarship Universe, demonstrating both academic excellence and financial need.
Academic Scholarship Programs Apprenticeship & Internship Programs

NDSU: The Board of Trustees Endowment

North Dakota State University
Private
Cass County, North Dakota
Up to US $1,000
The NDSU: The Board of Trustees Endowment supports diverse programs at North Dakota State University. Managed by the NDSU Foundation, it aims to enhance advocacy and philanthropy, fostering collaboration among faculty, staff, students, and community leaders. This initiative plays a vital role in improving educational experiences and resources for NDSU and its stakeholders, ultimately benefiting the lives of individuals across North Dakota.
Education - Higher Education Academic Success & Enrichment

Sally P. and Glenn L. Ramsdell Scholarship Fund

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Sally P. and Glenn L. Ramsdell Scholarship Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports students pursuing degrees in Accounting and Business Administration. Open to full-time students, including high school seniors and graduate students, this renewable scholarship offers funding for tuition, fees, and books for up to three years. Applicants must demonstrate academic promise and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. This initiative aims to foster educational advancement and community enrichment.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Hubbard County Coalition of Lake Association Grant

The Northwest Minnesota Foundation
Private
Hubbard County, Minnesota
Up to US $2,000
The Hubbard County Coalition of Lake Associations Grant, funded by the Northwest Minnesota Foundation, supports projects that promote environmentally sustainable practices for local lakes and watersheds. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and community groups within Hubbard County. Projects can involve invasive species prevention, water quality research, and educational initiatives. A matched funding requirement ensures community engagement, making it a vital resource for preserving local natural resources and enhancing community resilience.
Freshwater Conservation

Pūkoʻa Fellows Program

The Aspen Institute Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Pūkoʻa Fellows Program, launched by the Center for Native American Youth (CNAY) at the Aspen Institute, is a 12-week virtual initiative aimed at Pasifika students in the diaspora. The program fosters exploration of diasporic identity and community responsibility through weekly sessions, mentorship, and a student-led event. Participants will connect with a national network of Pasifika organizers, enhancing their advocacy skills and building supportive campus spaces. This program is open to college students aged 18-26.
Asian / Pacific Island Culture & Heritage

Gary S. Morgan Student Research Award

Florida Paleontological Society
Association/Society
Florida
Up to US $1,000
The Gary S. Morgan Student Research Award, provided by the Florida Paleontological Society, aims to enhance understanding of Florida's paleontology through innovative research. Open to both undergraduate and graduate students in good standing at Florida universities, this award supports various research expenditures, excluding travel to meetings and salaries. Eligible research fields include invertebrates, vertebrates, microfossils, and plants, encouraging a diverse range of projects to foster new discoveries.
Paleontology

Limited Competition: NIGMS Mature Synchrotron Resources (MSR) for Structural Biology (P30 - Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Unspecified amount
The Limited Competition: NIGMS Mature Synchrotron Resources for Structural Biology program aims to support advanced technologies at synchrotron facilities, providing biomedical researchers with cutting-edge X-ray beamlines, user training, and expert assistance. This initiative intends to continue funding through a reissued Notice of Funding Opportunity, inviting eligible organizations to apply. Applications will undergo NIH standard peer-review processes to ensure only the most meritorious proposals are funded.
Molecular Biology Biochemistry

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.