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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

New York City Small Theatres Fund

Alliance Of Resident Theatres New York Inc
Private
New York County, New York
US $7,500 - US $10,000
The New York City Small Theatres Fund, established in collaboration with the Howard Gilman Foundation, offers vital support to small nonprofit theatre companies in NYC with budgets under $250,000. This fund provides annual grants ranging from $7,500 to $10,000 over two years, fostering diverse artistic expressions and enhancing production capabilities. By engaging a wide array of communities, this initiative aims to empower historically under-resourced theatres and promote equity in the vibrant landscape of New York City's performing arts.
Theater

Healthcare Infection Society: Public Engagement Grant

Healthcare Infection Society (HIS)
Private
Ireland, United Kingdom
Up to £1,000
The Healthcare Infection Society offers a Public Engagement Grant to support events promoting clinical microbiology, infection prevention, and healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs). Grants of up to £1,000 are available for HIS members and teams in the UK and Ireland. Eligible events may include workshops, exhibitions, and awareness activities. Priority is given to activities that cannot proceed without HIS funding, ensuring impactful outreach and education on microbiology and infection control.
Health Care Associated Infections

Healthcare Infection Society: Sponsored Events Grant

Healthcare Infection Society (HIS)
Private
Ireland, United Kingdom
Up to £1,000
The Healthcare Infection Society offers a Sponsored Events Grant of up to £1,000 to support events aimed at preventing healthcare-acquired infections. Eligible events include lectures, regional gatherings, and virtual meetings, specifically targeting healthcare professionals. Applicants must be HIS members and apply three months before the event. This grant prioritizes events that cannot proceed without HIS funding, ensuring impactful educational opportunities in the UK and Ireland.
Health Care Associated Infections

Creative Opportunity Fund

Alliance Of Resident Theatres New York Inc
Private
New York
US $2,000 - US $5,000
The Creative Opportunity Fund, managed by A.R.T./New York, offers general operating support grants ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 for small professional theatres in New York State with budgets under $500,000. This initiative aims to promote capacity building and stabilization by providing flexible funding to theatres that face barriers to mainstream funding due to racial, economic, disability, and geographic factors. The fund is a regrant from the New York State Council on the Arts, ensuring broad access to necessary resources.
Theater

Kids' Chance of Tennessee Scholarship

Kids’ Chance of Tennessee
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Kids' Chance of Tennessee Scholarship provides vital financial support to young individuals who have lost a parent in a work-related accident or who have experienced severe injuries. This scholarship aims to assist students aged 16-25 who are legal residents of Tennessee, demonstrating financial need and maintaining a GPA of 2.5 or higher. By offering this opportunity, Kids' Chance of Tennessee empowers students to pursue higher education and achieve their academic goals.
Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Muktuk Marston Foundation Fund

The Alaska Community Foundation
Private
Alaska
Up to US $30,000
The Muktuk Marston Foundation Fund supports charitable, literary, educational, and scientific initiatives primarily benefiting Alaska Natives in the region west of the 156th Meridian. With approximately $30,000 available annually, the fund welcomes applications from September 1 to December 1 each year. It aims to enhance subsistence food security and promote projects that serve cultural and educational purposes, fostering community development and support for local organizations.
Indigenous Services

Kids' Chance of New Jersey Scholarship

Kids Chance of New Jersey
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Kids' Chance of New Jersey Scholarship provides financial support for college and vocational education to children of New Jersey workers who have suffered serious injuries or fatalities in work-related accidents. This initiative helps alleviate the financial burdens faced by families during difficult times, ensuring that deserving young individuals can pursue their educational aspirations. Eligible applicants must be dependents aged 18-26 of injured workers with an accepted workers' compensation claim.
Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Healthcare Infection Society: Graham Ayliffe Fellowship

Healthcare Infection Society (HIS)
Private
Ireland, United Kingdom
Up to £80,000
The Graham Ayliffe Fellowship, established by the Healthcare Infection Society in 2013, offers clinicians in infection prevention and control a unique opportunity to take a one-year paid leave to enhance their expertise. This fellowship supports innovative projects, including research, audits, and guideline development. With a maximum award of £80,000, it aims to foster advancements in IPC and is open to specialty registrars and qualified nursing professionals. The fellowship requires HIS membership and a commitment to contributing to the field.
Health Care Associated Infections

CUNY Dance Initiative Residencies

Howard Gilman Foundation Inc
Private
Bronx County, New York, Kings County, New York +3 more
More than US $1,000
The CUNY Dance Initiative (CDI) provides New York City choreographers and dance companies with essential resources like rehearsal time and performance space across 14 CUNY campuses. This residency program aims to support local artists, enrich the cultural life of college students, and create new dance audiences. Eligible applicants include independent choreographers and professional companies with at least three years of professional experience. The initiative fosters collaboration between the city's vibrant dance community and educational institutions.
Dance

Healthcare Infection Society: Career Development Bursary

Healthcare Infection Society (HIS)
Private
Ireland, United Kingdom
Up to £2,500
The Healthcare Infection Society offers a Career Development Bursary aimed at supporting the continuing professional development of Full and Associate members. Eligible members can apply every three years for a bursary of £2,500 for both UK and international CPD, with a total annual funding of £10,000. The program encourages diverse learning experiences, including workshops and training, but does not fund research or conference attendance.
Health Care Associated Infections

Award for Graduate Study in American History

National Society of The Colonial Dames of America in the State of Illinois (NSCDA-IL)
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $3,000
The Award for Graduate Study in American History, offered by the National Society of The Colonial Dames of America in the State of Illinois (NSCDA-IL), provides $3,000 annually to a graduate student. This award supports research that enhances understanding of America's development from colonial times to the present, with a preference for those intending to teach. NSCDA-IL fosters appreciation for our national heritage through educational initiatives and historic preservation.
Academic Scholarship Programs American History

DCCF Teacher Grants

Decatur County Community Foundation Inc.
Private
Decatur County, Indiana
Up to US $500
The DCCF Teacher Grants provide financial support of up to $500 for innovative classroom projects in Decatur County. These grants aim to empower teachers to implement creative ideas that cannot be covered by traditional funding sources, such as school budgets. The Decatur County Community Foundation is dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities and fostering impactful initiatives in the community. This program exemplifies their commitment to supporting educators and improving the overall learning environment.
Teacher Development & Training Academic Success & Enrichment

Ebell/Flint Scholarship

Ebell of Los Angeles
Corporate
Los Angeles County, California
US $3,000 - US $5,000
The Ebell/Flint Scholarship empowers undergraduate students in Los Angeles County with financial support ranging from $3,000 to $5,000 annually. Designed for those who have completed their first year, this scholarship fosters academic achievement and community engagement. Candidates are selected based on financial need and leadership qualities. With over 4,800 recipients and a total of more than $10 million awarded, this initiative facilitates educational opportunities without application fees, ensuring accessibility for all eligible students.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Mike Emmerson International Fellowship

Healthcare Infection Society (HIS)
Private
Ireland, United Kingdom
£2,500
The Mike Emmerson International Fellowship supports healthcare professionals from low-income countries to gain experience in infection prevention and control. With a total funding of £10,000 and a maximum award of £2,500, this fellowship allows recipients to undertake clinical observerships in the UK or the Republic of Ireland. Applicants must have a UK or RoI-based sponsor and demonstrate current clinical work. The fellowship covers travel, accommodation, and subsistence costs, fostering international collaboration and education.
Health Care Associated Infections

Underdown Family Foundation - Hickory, NC Grants

Underdown Family Foundation
Private
Catawba County, North Carolina
Unspecified amount
The Underdown Family Foundation, established in 1993, focuses on funding nonprofit organizations that enhance the Hickory, NC community. It prioritizes educational initiatives, health and human services, and faith-based projects, aiming to address local needs effectively. The foundation also supports research on significant diseases at a regional or national level. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt and operate within Hickory to be eligible for funding.
Education Health & Medicine Human & Social Services +1 more

First Responders Children's Foundation Scholarship Fund

First Responders Childrens Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The First Responders Children's Foundation Scholarship Fund offers college scholarships to children of first responders, emphasizing financial need and academic merit. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.7, provide a current transcript, and demonstrate community involvement. Scholarships are renewable for up to four years based on eligibility criteria. Preference is given to students whose parents have experienced line-of-duty disabilities or deaths. This program supports the educational aspirations of those who have sacrificed for their communities.
Education - Higher Education First Responders

ZSRF: Sabbatical Program

Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation
Private
North Carolina
US $40,000
The ZSRF Sabbatical Program supports nonprofit leaders in North Carolina by providing up to six months of paid time away for personal rejuvenation. Since 1990, the program has awarded $40,000 per sabbatical, with $30,000 for the leader's reflection and $10,000 for their organization to enhance capacity during their absence. Eligible candidates must be in executive-level positions and have at least three years of service. This initiative helps combat burnout and encourages fresh ideas upon return.
Healthy Habits & Behaviors

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

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

Wilbon H. and Mary J. Pulliam Scholarship

Community Foundation of Howard County
Private
Howard County, Maryland
US $1,000
The Wilbon H. and Mary J. Pulliam Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Howard County, awards $1,000 to a deserving senior student from Howard County High Schools. This scholarship aims to honor the memory of Wilbon H. and Mary J. Pulliam, supporting students who plan to attend a college or trade school in Maryland and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher. It's an opportunity for local students to further their education and achieve their academic goals.
Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

State Clinical Achievement Awards and Louis M. DiCarlo Award for Recent Clinical Achievement

American Speech Language Hearing Foundation
Private
United States
US $2,500
The State Clinical Achievement Awards and the Louis M. DiCarlo Award honor significant accomplishments in clinical practice within audiology and speech-language pathology over the past six years. Nominations are submitted by state associations, selecting individuals who have advanced clinical knowledge. The DiCarlo Award, in memory of Louis M. DiCarlo, provides a plaque and a $2,500 grant to further the recipient's work. Eligible achievements must be specific and well-defined.
Communication Disorders

Joe & Jess Crump Foundation - Crippled Children Grant

Joe & Jess Crump Foundation
Private
Texas
Unspecified amount
The Joe & Jess Crump Foundation provides support to charitable organizations that assist children with disabilities. This private foundation prioritizes funding for nonprofit organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS tax code. Program areas include Human and Social Services as well as Health and Medical Research. However, individuals are not eligible to apply for grants, ensuring that funds are directed solely towards established nonprofit entities.
Children With Disabilities

Robert J. Gaw Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation of Howard County
Private
Howard County, Maryland
US $1,000
The Robert J. Gaw Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Howard County, provides a $1,000 award to a deserving senior attending a Howard County public high school. This scholarship aims to support students pursuing their dreams and higher education, whether at a college, university, or trade school. Candidates must maintain a minimum unweighted GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate commitment to their academic and career aspirations.
Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Montana Wild Transportation & Lodging Grants

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks
State/Local Government
Lewis and Clark County, Montana
Unspecified amount
The Montana Wild Transportation & Lodging Grants provide financial assistance to Montana public schools for travel and lodging expenses related to educational visits to Montana WILD in Helena. Grants support hands-on learning experiences for K-12 students in various subjects, including wildlife and conservation. Eligible expenses include lodging for schools located over 150 miles from Helena, with maximum awards of $2,500 for outlying schools and $500 for local schools. Applications are accepted annually from April to May.
Education - K through 12 Wildlife Rehabilitation & Sanctuaries

Goleta Child Care Grant

Santa Barbara Foundation
Private
Santa Barbara County, California
Up to US $15,000
The Goleta Child Care Grant, offered by the Santa Barbara Foundation, addresses the critical shortage of quality child care in Goleta, where demand greatly exceeds supply. This program aims to enhance the capacity of local child care providers and support workforce development to ensure safe and enriching environments for children. By prioritizing professional development and organizational improvement in child care services, the grant fosters economic mobility and healthy child development for families in the community.
Child Care Services

Golden Apple Scholars Program in Michigan

Golden Apple Foundation of New Mexico
Private
Michigan
Up to US $15,000
The Golden Apple Scholars Program in Michigan offers aspiring educators the chance to excel in teaching within Pre-K-12 schools. Participants can receive up to $15,000 for professional development, mentorship, and job placement assistance. Eligibility includes high school seniors and college freshmen or sophomores. Scholars must maintain a 2.5 GPA, participate in training, and commit to teaching for five years in a Michigan school-of-need after graduation, fostering a new generation of committed educators.
Education - K through 12 Teacher Development & Training

The Societies for Pediatric Urology: Annual Research Grant

The Societies for Pediatric Urology
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $40,000
The Societies for Pediatric Urology Annual Research Grant offers up to $40,000 for innovative research in pediatric urology. Targeted at junior and mid-level faculty, this grant encourages clinical, translational, and basic science research. Eligible applicants include pediatric urological clinicians and researchers who are SPU members or have sponsorship. This funding aims to foster impactful projects that can secure additional external funding, enhancing the field of pediatric urology.
Children’s Health & Pediatrics Urology

Mary Ann Levant Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation of Howard County
Private
Howard County, Maryland
US $1,000
The Mary Ann Levant Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Howard County, provides $750 to a senior student from Marriotts Ridge High School. This scholarship honors Mary Ann Levant, a devoted educator who significantly contributed to the Howard County Public School System. Eligible applicants must plan to attend a college or trade school, showcasing their academic promise and commitment to further education.
Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade 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.

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