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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

Mabel and Allan Mackenzie Scholarship

Oregon Community Foundation
Private
Oregon
Unspecified amount
The Mabel and Allan Mackenzie Scholarship supports Black or African American student athletes from Deschutes County attending community college in Oregon. This scholarship is aimed at those who demonstrate academic or vocational potential but face financial challenges in covering their college costs. Awards vary, and students must reapply annually, with the possibility of renewal for up to two years, making it a valuable opportunity for deserving students.
Black American Services

Mary P. Gill Charitable Trust Grant

Mary P. Gill Charitable Trust
Private
Jefferson County, Kentucky
Unspecified amount
The Mary P. Gill Charitable Trust Grant supports charitable organizations in Louisville, KY, focusing on essential areas such as Animal Welfare, Education, Health and Medical Research, and Human and Social Services. This grant aims to enhance community well-being through targeted funding initiatives that address pressing local needs. For more information about the grant program, please visit the foundation finder link provided.
Animal Welfare - General Education Health & Medicine +1 more

Minchen-Beville Foundation Grant

Minchen-Beville Foundation
Private
Williamson County, Texas
Unspecified amount
The Minchen-Beville Foundation Grant supports charitable organizations in Georgetown, Texas, focusing on older adults. Key program areas include Arts and Culture, Civic Activities, Community Development, Education, Health and Medical Research, Human and Social Services, Religious, and Scientific initiatives. Organizations that align with these priorities are encouraged to apply for funding to enhance community welfare and engagement.
Senior Services Aging / Gerontology

Joe & Jessie Crump Foundation - Medical Research (Cancer) Grant

Joe & Jess Crump Foundation
Private
Texas
Unspecified amount
The Joe & Jessie Crump Foundation offers a grant focused on medical research in the field of cancer. This funding is exclusively available to charitable organizations recognized as 501(c)(3) entities under IRS regulations. Applications from individuals are not accepted. The foundation aims to support innovative research that can lead to significant advancements in cancer treatment and care, thereby contributing to the broader health and medical research landscape.
Cancer / Oncology

Generation Regen Challenge: Presented by BMO

One Young World
Private
Canada, United States
Up to US $200,000
The Generation Regen Challenge, presented by BMO, aims to promote regenerative agriculture in Canada and the U.S. by providing $200,000 to innovative social enterprises and non-profits. This initiative seeks to enhance local farming practices, soil health, animal welfare, and biodiversity, while ensuring food security for underserved communities. By supporting projects that restore ecosystems and sequester carbon, the challenge encourages a sustainable agricultural future. Applications are open to eligible organizations focused on impactful solutions in their communities.
Sustainable Agriculture & Agroecology

Mosaic Art Fund

Coral Gables Community Foundation
Private
Miami-Dade County, Florida
Up to US $10,000
The Corral & Cathers Artist Fund, established by Ray Corral and Catherine Cathers, supports professional artists in Miami-Dade County by providing grants for artistic development. This fund aims to assist artists in exploring their craft through supplies, exhibits, and professional opportunities. Eligible artists must be at least 18 years old, have resided in the county for a minimum of one year, and apply independently. The fund does not support organizations, educational institutions, or students.
Artist Training & Development Arts / Culture Access & Participation

ORLF: Robert McCune Endowment Grants

Ottumwa Regional Legacy Foundation Inc.
Private
Wapello County, Iowa
Unspecified amount
The Robert McCune Endowment Grants support cancer patients in Ottumwa and Wapello County by providing financial assistance for medical treatment, facility improvements, and educational opportunities for healthcare professionals. This endowment, honoring Robert McCune's compassionate legacy, encourages applications from underinsured or uninsured patients, ensuring they receive necessary care while promoting cancer awareness and support programs.
Cancer / Oncology

Dr. Ralph and Marian Falk Medical Research Trust – Falk Transformational Awards

Health Resources in Action
Private
United States
Up to US $1,000,000
The Dr. Ralph and Marian Falk Medical Research Trust offers the Falk Transformational Awards to provide critical bridge funding for successful Catalyst Award recipients. These awards, which can be up to $1M for a period of 2-3 years, aim to advance healthcare innovations, overcome scientific challenges, and promote new treatment avenues. Managed by Health Resources in Action, the program emphasizes improving medical treatments and finding cures for diseases that currently lack definitive solutions.
Diseases & Conditions Biomedical informatics

Brooklyn Org: General Operating Support

Brooklyn Org
Private
Kings County, New York
Up to US $135,000
Brooklyn Org offers general operating support grants of up to $45,000 annually for three years, aimed at organizations promoting racial justice and serving historically marginalized communities in Brooklyn. Applications are accepted year-round with funding decisions made biannually. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits with a minimum budget of $100,000 and a physical presence in Brooklyn. The initiative emphasizes community-driven solutions and systemic change for social equity.
Racial / Ethnic Justice & Rights

Hattie Hannah Keeney Grant

Hattie Hannah Keeney
Private
Grand Traverse County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Hattie Hannah Keeney Grant provides essential support for disabled children in the Traverse City, Michigan area. This grant aims to assist in their aid and relief, ensuring that families receive the necessary resources and help. For more information about applying for this grant, please visit the foundation finder. This initiative reflects a commitment to improving the lives of children in need.
Children With Disabilities

Donald N. Tweedy Trust Grant

Donald N. Tweedy Trust
Private
Fairfield County, Connecticut
Up to US $40,000
The Donald N. Tweedy Trust Grant supports community organizations in Danbury, Connecticut, that focus on music. This grant aims to assist local entities where Danbury residents actively participate in musical performances. Nonprofit organizations meeting IRS 501(c)(3) criteria are eligible to apply, while individuals are not permitted to submit applications. For further details about the grant, please visit the foundation finder.
Music

Alaska Children's Trust: Conference/Training Sponsorship

Alaska Children's Trust
Private
Alaska
Up to US $1,000
The Alaska Children's Trust offers sponsorship grants for conferences and training aimed at preventing child abuse and neglect in Alaska. Organizations and individuals can apply for up to $1,000 to support professional development and information exchange. Applicants must submit their requests at least 90 days before the conference. This funding is intended for venue costs, food, and materials, ensuring that communities can foster safe and nurturing environments for children.
Child Abuse & Neglect

Out-of-School Time - Full Year and After School Grants

Max And Marian Farash Charitable Foundation
Private
Monroe County, New York, Ontario County, New York
US $2,700 - US $5,000,000
The Out-of-School Time initiative aims to enhance youth readiness for learning by funding innovative programs in Monroe and Ontario counties. With a budget of approximately $1.5 million, the Farash Foundation supports diverse out-of-school activities, addressing the 87% of children's time spent outside school hours. By fostering equitable access and listening to community feedback, this program seeks to create enriching environments where youth can develop skills, connect with mentors, and thrive.
After School / Summer Educational Programs

Researcher–Practitioner Collaboration Grant

American Speech Language Hearing Foundation
Private
Canada, United States
US $35,000
The Researcher–Practitioner Collaboration Grant, offered by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Foundation, supports collaborations between researchers and practitioners focused on improving services for individuals with communication disorders. Grants of $35,000 are available for studies that address clinical problems and enhance evidence-based practices. This funding opportunity encourages partnerships aimed at translating research into practical applications, thereby fostering innovative solutions in communication sciences and disorders within healthcare and educational settings.
Communication Disorders

New Century Scholars Research Grant

American Speech Language Hearing Foundation
Private
Canada, United States
US $25,000
The New Century Scholars Research Grant, offered by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Foundation, provides up to four grants of $25,000 each to support innovative research in communication sciences and disorders. This funding opportunity encourages both experienced and new investigators to explore novel ideas and methodologies, including artificial intelligence applications. Researchers must demonstrate potential for independent research, with a focus on significant contributions to the field. Applications are due after completing an Intent to Submit Form by March 5.
Communication Disorders

Houston Texans Foundation Donations Program

Houston Texans Foundation
Private
Texas
Unspecified amount
The Houston Texans Foundation Donations Program supports over 400 charitable organizations annually by providing in-kind donations like team memorabilia. While game tickets are unavailable, these contributions help raise funds for various causes. Organizations eligible for donations must be Texas-based nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status and can submit one request per year. The foundation encourages events to view donations as enhancements rather than the focal point of their planning.
Football

Division of Boating and Waterways Local Assistance Statewide- Non-Motorized Boat Launching Facility Grant Program

California Department of Parks and Recreation
State/Local Government
California
Unspecified amount
The Division of Boating and Waterways offers a Local Assistance Grant Program for the development of non-motorized boat launching facilities in California. Eligible applicants must own or control the project area and commit to operating and maintaining the facility for 20 years. The program aims to enhance public access to waterways, supporting local governments and agencies in improving marina infrastructure. Interested parties should contact the Division to discuss project suitability and application processes.
Recreational Water Use & Boating

Division of Boating and Waterways Local Assistance Statewide Sign Grant Program FY26

California Department of Parks and Recreation
State/Local Government
California
US $1,000 - US $6,000,000
The Division of Boating and Waterways Local Assistance Statewide Sign Grant Program FY26 offers funding for the installation and replacement of signs for previously funded projects. This initiative aims to ensure that signs are up-to-date, safe, and compliant with federal requirements. Grants support the improvement of public access to California's waterways, enhancing safety and user experience for the boating community. Applications are accepted until February 2, 2026, encouraging local agencies to participate in this vital program.
Recreational Water Use & Boating

Division of Boating and Waterways Local Assistance- Boat Launching Facility Grant Program

California Department of Parks and Recreation
State/Local Government
California
Unspecified amount
The Division of Boating and Waterways offers the Boat Launching Facility Grant Program to local agencies in California, aimed at developing and improving public boat launching facilities for motorized vessels. The program funds construction and enhancement of ramps, restrooms, parking, and other necessary infrastructure to ensure better access to California's waterways for recreational boating. Applications are accepted until February 1, 2025, and are open to various local government entities.
Recreational Water Use & Boating

New Investigators Research Grant

American Speech Language Hearing Foundation
Private
Canada, United States
US $10,000
The New Investigators Research Grant, offered by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Foundation, supports emerging researchers by funding preliminary studies with a clinical focus in audiology and speech-language pathology. Proposals that incorporate Artificial Intelligence technologies for assessment and treatment are encouraged. Grants of $10,000 are available for one-year projects, fostering innovation and research in communication sciences. Eligible investigators must have completed their doctoral degree within the last five years and must not have received prior external funding.
Communication Disorders

Speech Science Research Grant

American Speech Language Hearing Foundation
Private
Canada, United States
US $10,000
The Speech Science Research Grant, offered by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Foundation, supports new investigators conducting research in speech science. A $10,000 grant will be awarded to eligible researchers, who must have completed their PhD within the last five years. The funding can be utilized for various research-related expenses, fostering innovative studies and honoring the legacy of researcher Dennis Klatt. The next application cycle will be in 2026.
Communication Disorders

Boston Scientific Medical Student Innovation Fellowship

American Urological Association Inc
Private
Canada, Central America +2 more
Up to US $20,000
The AUA Boston Scientific Medical Student Innovation Fellowship, funded by the American Urological Association, aims to nurture future urologic researchers. This fellowship offers a $20,000 stipend for a 12-month research project, engaging medical students in innovative urology research under expert mentorship. The initiative addresses the pressing need for skilled professionals in the urologic research field, ensuring a robust pipeline of talent dedicated to advancing patient care and scientific discovery in urology.
Urology Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

General Operating Support for Midsized Organizations Grant

Washington State Arts Commission
State/Local Government
Washington
Up to US $12,000
The General Operating Support for Midsized Organizations Grant provides two-year funding of up to $12,000 to arts, heritage, and culture organizations in Washington State for general operating expenses. The grant aims to equitably distribute funds while supporting community engagement in the creative economy, emphasizing cultural equity and diversity. Eligible applicants must have a mission focused on art and meet specific criteria, including a minimum operating budget and three years of programming history.
Public / Community Art Arts / Culture Access & Participation Nonprofit Growth & Development

Advocacy for Children, Youth, and Families Grant

Alaska Children's Trust
Private
Alaska
Up to US $3,000
The Advocacy for Children, Youth, and Families Grant, offered by Alaska Children's Trust, aims to strengthen advocacy efforts for children and families in Alaska. With up to ten grants available, each worth $3,000, eligible nonprofit organizations can engage in advocacy during the 2026 legislative session. This initiative supports activities that defend existing laws, propose new legislation, and prevent harmful policies, ultimately striving to safeguard the welfare of Alaskan children and families.
Family Services Youth Services

Partnering Research and Community Organizations for Comparative Clinical Effectiveness Research Across the Cancer Care Continuum PCORI Funding

Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $13,000,000
The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) is announcing funding for comparative clinical effectiveness research across the cancer care continuum. This initiative aims to empower researcher-community partnerships to tackle significant healthcare challenges faced by patients and caregivers in the U.S. The focus is on enhancing care delivery and outcomes by addressing barriers to screening, treatment, and follow-up care for cancer patients. Applications are encouraged to identify strategies that improve patient-centered outcomes.
Cancer / Oncology

Healthcare Infection Society: Small Research Grant

Healthcare Infection Society (HIS)
Private
Ireland, United Kingdom
Up to £10,000
The Healthcare Infection Society offers a Small Research Grant aimed at funding innovative research in infection prevention and control, particularly related to nosocomial infections. Grants of up to £10,000 are available for projects lasting a maximum of 24 months. Eligible applicants must be based in the UK or Republic of Ireland and be members of HIS. This initiative encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and aims to support small-scale research that can lead to larger funding opportunities.
Health Care Associated Infections

New Music Creator Fund

New Music Usa Inc
Private
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Unspecified amount
The New Music Creator Fund provides financial support to individual music creators across all genres, helping them advance their creative practice. This initiative covers costs associated with developing new work and collaborative projects. Applicants must be at least 21 years old and have three years of professional music experience. The fund aims to empower diverse music creators in the U.S. by facilitating the development of innovative musical ideas and fostering artistic collaboration.
Music

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.