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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

Eloise Strother Wyly Scholarship Fund

Center for Scholarship Administration (CSA)
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Eloise Strother Wyly Scholarship Fund, managed by the Center for Scholarship Administration (CSA), offers financial assistance to deserving students attending Clemson University or Winthrop University. Eligible applicants must be high school seniors from Walhalla High School, demonstrate financial need, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. The scholarship is renewable for up to four years, contingent on full-time enrollment and good academic standing, covering tuition, fees, books, and supplies.
Academic Scholarship Programs Education - Higher Education

Louis A. Woitishek Educational Scholarship

Center for Scholarship Administration (CSA)
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Louis A. Woitishek Educational Scholarship, administered by the Center for Scholarship Administration, provides financial support to full-time students at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Eligible applicants must be residents of Clark County, maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5, and demonstrate financial need. The scholarship covers tuition, fees, and required educational materials for up to four years. This initiative aims to empower deserving students to achieve their academic goals.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Arizona Grain Research and Promotion Council Grant

Arizona Department of Agriculture
State/Local Government
Arizona
Up to US $40,000
The Arizona Grain Research and Promotion Council Grant aims to support local grain producers by funding research and projects that enhance economic sustainability. Priority areas include reducing fresh water usage, developing new grain varieties, and improving production methods. The grant program ensures that findings are accessible to all Arizona grain producers, fostering innovation and growth in the agricultural sector. This initiative aligns with the state's commitment to advancing agricultural practices for better resource management.
Agricultural Crops

Mearl K. Gable II Memorial Grant

Handweavers Guild of America Inc.
Private
United States
More than US $100
The Mearl K. Gable II Memorial Grant, established by the Handweavers Guild of America, Inc., supports fiber artists by providing grants of $100 or more for non-accredited programs. Since 2000, the grant honors Mearl K. Gable II and promotes educational opportunities for all skill levels. Recipients must report their findings within six months, ensuring accountability and continued support for the fiber arts community.
Textile & Fiber Arts

NDSU: The Engebretson Family Research Fund

North Dakota State University
Private
Cass County, North Dakota
US $30,200
The NDSU: The Engebretson Family Research Fund supports pharmaceutical research aimed at developing innovative drug therapies and delivery systems. Established by the NDSU Foundation, it fosters collaboration among faculty, staff, and industry leaders to enhance the educational and research mission of North Dakota State University. This grant is available every other year, specifically in odd-numbered years, ensuring ongoing support for groundbreaking research initiatives.
Pharmacology Biochemistry

Rapier Education Fund

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
United States
US $2,000
The Rapier Education Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports high school seniors and college students pursuing degrees in the USA. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and be enrolled full-time. The fund covers tuition, fees, and books, and is renewable for up to three years. Since 1964, the foundation has awarded millions in grants to enhance community living through education and other initiatives, making a lasting impact on the San Antonio area.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Missouri

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Missouri
Up to US $1,000,000
The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Missouri provide vital funding for eligible rural communities to prepare for or recover from emergencies affecting safe drinking water. This program, supported by USDA Rural Development, enables grants for water transmission lines and source construction, ensuring access to reliable water in the wake of disasters like floods and droughts. By fostering partnerships and encouraging sustainable practices, it aims to enhance water security and support community resilience.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Rural West-Central Texas- Paula Windham Fund Grants

Community Foundation of Abilene
Private
Brown County, Texas, Callahan County, Texas +17 more
Unspecified amount
The Rural West-Central Texas- Paula Windham Fund Grants support non-profit organizations that enhance the quality of life in rural communities. Applicants must interview with Foundation staff and apply via the Foundant GLM system. Eligible organizations include those in specific Texas counties and those within a 150-mile radius of Oplin. The fund focuses on areas such as arts, community development, education, and health services, honoring the legacy of Dr. Paula Andree Windham.
Rural Development

Museum Grant Program

CA Natural Resources Agency
State/Local Government
California
US $50,000 - US $1,000,000
The Museum Grant Program, established under California Assembly Bill 716, aims to support museums through competitive grants for projects focused on exhibits, education, and outreach, particularly benefiting historically underserved communities and students. Following the impacts of COVID-19, funding is prioritized for museums significantly affected by the pandemic. This initiative enhances access to cultural resources and promotes the preservation of California's historical and cultural heritage.
Museums & Cultural Institutions

Proyecto Ayuda Scholarship Fund

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
United States
US $500 - US $1,000
The Proyecto Ayuda Scholarship Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, offers financial assistance to full-time high school seniors from specific districts. Eligible students must come from Spanish-speaking households and be first-generation college students. The scholarship supports various areas of study for up to three years, assisting a total of 20 students annually. It aims to improve educational opportunities and empower the next generation within the community.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Senator Carl O. Koella, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee
Private
Anderson County, Tennessee, Bledsoe County, Tennessee +30 more
Unspecified amount
The Senator Carl O. Koella, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Tennessee Lobbyist Association in memory of State Senator Carl O. Koella, aims to support bright young individuals from East Tennessee pursuing internships in the Tennessee State Legislature. With over 30 years of impactful philanthropy, the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee fosters positive change by connecting donors with community needs, ensuring that resources effectively contribute to a thriving and inclusive future.
Academic Scholarship Programs Education - Higher Education

Patricia L. Hartman and Lois C. Hartman Scholarship Fund

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Patricia L. Hartman and Lois C. Hartman Scholarship Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports current high school seniors and college students pursuing Associate or Bachelor's degrees in the USA. It aims to enhance educational opportunities, with a preference for applicants from Alamo Heights ISD. This fund reflects a commitment to improving community life through education, making a lasting impact on students' futures.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Regional Trail Grant Program

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
State/Local Government
Minnesota
US $5,000 - US $300,000
The Regional Trail Grant Program aims to enhance trail development outside the seven-county metropolitan area by providing grants to local governments. With funding from "In Lieu Of" lottery proceeds, it supports up to 75% of eligible project costs, requiring a 25% non-state cash match. The anticipated funding of $1.1 million will be allocated across three grant programs, subject to legislative appropriation. This initiative fosters connectivity and promotes regional significance in trail facilities.
Trail Creation & Maintenance

Central Mesabi Fund for Human Services

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

Nemo Herrera Scholarship Fund

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Nemo Herrera Scholarship Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports graduating high school seniors pursuing further education in any field. This scholarship aims to assist those who demonstrate academic merit and involvement in extracurricular activities, particularly students from Lanier High School. As a non-renewable scholarship, it covers tuition, fees, and books, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent deserving students from achieving their academic goals.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

AVID: Scholarship Fund

Scholarship America Inc
Private
United States
US $1,500 - US $7,500
The AVID Scholarship Fund, managed by Scholarship America, supports high school seniors in Orange County, CA, who are enrolled in the AVID elective for at least three years. Eligible students must plan to attend a four-year college and demonstrate financial need, with a minimum GPA of 3.0. The scholarship emphasizes community commitment and is available through a single application for multiple funds.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Victor J. Ferrari Memorial Scholarship Fund

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Victor J. Ferrari Memorial Scholarship Fund, administered by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports students pursuing degrees in Education. Open to high school seniors and current college students, it aims to alleviate financial barriers to education. Eligible candidates must maintain a 3.0 GPA and demonstrate a commitment to the teaching profession. This renewable scholarship provides funding for tuition, fees, and books, ensuring that future educators can focus on their studies and contribute positively to the community.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Valero Scholarship Fund

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
United States
US $2,500
The Valero Scholarship Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, offers financial support to dependent children of full-time Valero employees. This fund aims to empower students pursuing an Associate or Bachelor's Degree by covering tuition, fees, books, and room and board. With the potential for renewal over three years, applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and demonstrate involvement in extracurricular activities. Since 1964, the foundation has significantly impacted the community through scholarships and grants.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Montana

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Montana
Up to US $1,000,000
The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants program in Montana provides crucial support for communities facing emergencies that threaten safe drinking water. It assists in the construction and repair of water infrastructure, with grants available for water transmission lines and sources, helping to restore access to clean water in rural areas. Eligible applicants include local governments, nonprofits, and tribes, ensuring that assistance reaches those in need and aids recovery from various natural disasters.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Victim Offender Dialogue Fiscal Year

CA Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation
State/Local Government
California
Unspecified amount
The Victim Offender Dialogue Program Grants aim to provide funding for nonprofit organizations facilitating restorative justice dialogues between crime victims and offenders. With a total of $2 million available over two years, these grants support the creation of safe environments for personal healing and accountability. By empowering victims and encouraging offenders to express remorse, this initiative fosters empathy, responsibility, and healing within California's justice system.
Crime & Justice Crime Victim Services

United Charitable Fund

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The United Charitable Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, offers scholarships for graduate students pursuing advanced degrees in various fields. Established in 1964, this fund aims to improve community quality of life through education, environmental preservation, and support for non-profits. Scholarships are renewable for up to three years, requiring a minimum GPA of 2.0 and enrollment at a U.S. university. Join us in making a lasting impact through education and community service.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Dick and Carol Irvin Family Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Dick and Carol Irvin Family Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering. Applicants must be Montana high school graduates, demonstrate financial need, and be at junior or senior status. Preference is given to graduates from Shelby, Montana. This scholarship is part of the university's commitment to providing access to transformative education, fostering academic excellence and community development.
Academic Scholarship Programs Education - Higher Education

Tito Villalobos Moreno Memorial Scholarship Fund

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Tito Villalobos Moreno Memorial Scholarship Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, aims to support graduating high school seniors from specific Texas counties pursuing education in health care and social services. This scholarship provides financial assistance for tuition, fees, and books, helping students further their education and positively impact the community. Established to honor Tito Villalobos Moreno, this initiative reflects a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for future generations through education.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Land for Maine's Future: Public Water Access to Maine Waters Fund Grant

Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry
State/Local Government
Maine
Unspecified amount
The Land for Maine's Future: Public Water Access to Maine Waters Fund Grant supports projects that enhance public access to Maine's lakes, rivers, and coastal waters. By acquiring small parcels of land, the fund aims to create access points for various water activities, including fishing and boating. Applications require sponsorship from a state agency and consent from landowners. This initiative fosters community engagement and promotes outdoor recreation, benefiting local economies and preserving natural resources.
Recreational Water Use & Boating

ME Boating Facilities Fund Grant

Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry
State/Local Government
Maine
Up to US $100,000
The ME Boating Facilities Fund Grant, administered by the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, aims to enhance recreational boating access throughout Maine. It supports towns and agencies in developing and rehabilitating public boat launching facilities. Eligible projects include both hand-carry and trailer boat launches on tidal and non-tidal waters, with a required match of at least 25%. The fund prioritizes facilities accessible to both motorized and non-motorized watercraft.
Recreational Water Use & Boating

The Butler/Daniel Scholarship

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
Grimes County, Texas, Liberty County, Texas +4 more
US $1,000
The Butler/Daniel Scholarship, provided by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports students from specific Texas counties pursuing various degrees. Eligibility includes high school seniors, undergraduates, and graduate students who maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. This scholarship empowers future leaders by easing their educational expenses, fostering community development through education, and ensuring impactful contributions to society.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Venturous Capital Grants

Venturous Theater Fund
Association/Society
United States
US $10,000 - US $45,000
The Venturous Capital Grants aim to empower small and medium-sized not-for-profit theaters to produce bold and experimental new plays. Grants range from $5,000 to $35,000, covering extraordinary costs that enable productions to thrive. The program supports text-based, author-driven works that are ambitious, challenging, and innovative, while emphasizing the importance of playwright compensation and adhering to AEA standards. This initiative fosters creativity and helps overcome financial barriers in theater production.
Theater

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.