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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

Morrison Area Community Foundation Grant

Quad Cities Community Foundation
Private
Whiteside County, Illinois
Up to US $2,500
The Morrison Area Community Foundation Grant aims to enhance the educational, cultural, recreational, and economic environment of Morrison and surrounding areas. Funded by generous local donors, the grant supports various nonprofit organizations addressing community needs, including arts, health, and human services. The Quad Cities Community Foundation administers this grant, ensuring compliance with diversity and non-discrimination policies. Applications are open to organizations that align with these goals, providing vital resources to improve community welfare.
Education Art & Culture Health & Medicine +1 more

Wilmington New Castle Pediatric Association Fund

Delaware Community Foundation
Private
Delaware
US $2,500 - US $5,000
The Wilmington New Castle Pediatric Association Fund, managed by the Delaware Community Foundation, provides small grants aimed at enhancing educational programs for pediatric healthcare providers. Eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits can apply for funding to support continuing education and training initiatives. The foundation emphasizes equitable service delivery in Delaware, excluding support for individuals and certain organizational expenses.
Medical Education & Professional Training Children’s Health & Pediatrics

J. J. Smith Foundation Grant

J. J. Smith Foundation
Private
El Paso County, Texas
Unspecified amount
The J. J. Smith Foundation Grant supports charitable organizations that aid low-income older adults in El Paso County, TX. Eligible applicants may also be considered for the Carrie M. Brown Foundation without the need for a separate application. This grant focuses on areas such as Human and Social Services, as well as Health and Medical Research, ensuring vital support for the community's elderly population.
Senior Services Aging / Gerontology

Raven Fund Career Technical Education Scholarships

CIRI Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $9,000
The Raven Fund Career Technical Education Scholarships, offered by the CIRI Foundation, aim to support CIRI voting shareholders pursuing technical skill training. With awards up to $9,000 per year, eligible applicants must be enrolled in recognized programs and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. The scholarships cover essential educational expenses, including tuition and fees, and also allow for personal expenses under certain conditions. This initiative fosters economic self-sufficiency and educational advancement among Alaska Native beneficiaries.
Academic Scholarship Programs Vocational & Trade Education

College Well-Being-Award

American College Health Foundation
Corporate
United States
Up to US $3,500
The College Well-Being Funding Opportunity aims to enhance the health of college students through innovative programs and research. Offered by the American College Health Foundation, it provides up to two awards of $3,500 to eligible institutions for improving campus infrastructure that promotes student well-being. This initiative encourages creativity and collaboration among campus health professionals to develop effective, measurable outcomes in student wellness. By fostering a culture of well-being, the foundation seeks to address the evolving needs of contemporary students.
Education - Higher Education Wellness & Healthy Living

Community Facilities Grant Program in Alabama

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Alabama
Unspecified amount
The Community Facilities Grant Program in Alabama offers vital funding for developing essential community facilities in rural areas. This program supports projects such as healthcare, public safety, and educational services, ensuring access to necessary resources for communities with populations of 20,000 or fewer. Eligible borrowers include public bodies and non-profit organizations, focusing on areas with low median household incomes. The program aims to enhance community development while prioritizing those most in need.
Rural Development

Carrie M. Brown Foundation Grant

Carrie Morton Brown Foundation
Private
El Paso County, Texas
Unspecified amount
The Carrie M. Brown Foundation Grant supports charitable organizations that assist low-income older adults in El Paso County, TX, with essential services like medical care and maintenance. This foundation prioritizes organizations that aid senior citizens who face financial hardships. To learn more about the grant, visit the foundation finder online. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Preference is given to those directly providing assistance to seniors.
Senior Services Poverty Alleviation & Services

Katie Kanowsky Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation Alliance, Inc.
Private
Calloway County, Kentucky
US $4,220
The Katie Kanowsky Memorial Scholarship, established by Frank and Kathy Kanowsky in memory of their daughter, supports North Posey High School graduates. With an award amount of $4,220, it encourages students to pursue higher education and apply their skills to benefit tri-state communities. Eligible applicants are seniors with a minimum GPA of 2.5 who plan to attend Murray State University after graduation. This scholarship aims to inspire future leaders through education.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Division for Molecular Pharmacology Early Career Award

American Society For Pharmacology And Experimental Therapeutics Inc
Private
Hennepin County, Minnesota
US $250 - US $750
The Division for Molecular Pharmacology Early Career Award, presented annually by the American Society For Pharmacology And Experimental Therapeutics (ASPET), honors junior investigators for their academic achievements. The award includes a $250 honorarium, a plaque, and support for attending the ASPET Annual Meeting. Eligible candidates must be ASPET members within 15 years of receiving their doctorate and must be nominated by current ASPET members, ensuring recognition of promising talent in the field.
Pharmacology Biochemistry

Chicago Commitment: Advancing Leadership Grant

John D and Catherine T MacArthur Foundation
Private
Cook County, Illinois
Unspecified amount
The Chicago Commitment: Advancing Leadership Grant aims to support diverse leaders from historically marginalized communities, fostering equity and inclusion in civic engagement. This initiative seeks to empower individuals who face systemic barriers, enabling them to influence decision-making and contribute to a more equitable Chicago. By funding leadership programs and individual leaders, the grant addresses urgent community needs while promoting collaboration among organizations to enhance their impact on societal change.
Civic Leadership Development Nonprofit Growth & Development Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Excellence Annual Scholarship

CIRI Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $15,000
The Excellence Annual Scholarship, offered by the CIRI Foundation, supports full-time undergraduate and graduate students with a minimum GPA of 3.5. This merit-based scholarship recognizes academic excellence and community service, providing up to $10,000 for one academic year. Funding covers direct educational expenses and personal expenses, ensuring Alaska Native beneficiaries can pursue their educational and career aspirations while preserving their rich cultural heritage.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Irv Noll Memorial Scholarship Fund

Berks County Community Foundation
Private
Berks County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Irv Noll Memorial Scholarship Fund, established in 2006 by the Berks County Community Foundation, honors Irv Noll's legacy by providing annual scholarships to seniors from public or parochial high schools in Berks County. Eligible recipients must have participated in high school sports, maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher, and demonstrate financial need. This fund supports students who embody kindness, sportsmanship, and perseverance, helping them pursue further education and achieve their goals.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

EMF SAMFund Financial Assistance Grants

Expect Miracles Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $19,000
The EMF SAMFund Financial Assistance Grants support young adult cancer survivors facing financial hardships due to their diagnosis. With 80,000 young adults diagnosed with cancer each year in the U.S., these grants provide critical assistance for essential living expenses like rent, car payments, and education. By prioritizing applicants who demonstrate financial need and articulate how the grant will aid their recovery, the program aims to alleviate financial toxicity and empower survivors to move forward with their lives.
Cancer / Oncology

AFS Travel Grant

Austin Film Society
Private
Africa, Americas +4 more
US $500 - US $1,000
The AFS Travel Grant, offered by the Austin Film Society, supports Texas-based filmmakers by covering travel costs to competitive film festivals worldwide. Since its inception, the grant has provided crucial financial assistance, enabling filmmakers to gain exposure and foster industry connections. Eligible applicants can receive up to $1,500 for travel, helping them navigate the financial challenges of festival participation. This initiative strengthens the local creative community and promotes diverse storytelling in the film industry.
Film

Brooks and Joan Fortune Family Foundation Grant

Brooks And Joan Fortune Family
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Brooks and Joan Fortune Family Foundation Grant supports educational, artistic, and outreach initiatives. Applications are accepted year-round, with a focus on projects that yield specific outcomes rather than general operating expenses. While historically centered in Indiana and Florida, the foundation welcomes proposals from across the country. Eligible organizations must hold a 501(c)(3) designation. This grant is an excellent opportunity for nonprofits aiming to make a tangible impact in their communities.
Education Art & Culture Arts / Culture Access & Participation

AFS Short Films Grant

Austin Film Society
Private
Texas
Up to US $10,000
The AFS Short Films Grant, established by the Austin Film Society, supports Texas filmmakers with up to $10,000 for production or post-production of short films under 40 minutes. Since 1996, over $2.8 million has been awarded to more than 550 artists, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. This grant fosters creativity and accessibility in filmmaking, ensuring talented Texas artists have the necessary resources to thrive in their home state.
Film

New Bedford Half Marathon Committee Scholarship

Southcoast Community Foundation
Private
Massachusetts
Unspecified amount

About Us

As a tax-exempt, public charity, the SouthCoast Community Foundation offers donors the guidance and flexibility to fulfill their philanthropic goals. We serve a range of charitable individuals, families, and corporations whose main concern is improving the quality of life in our community.

The SouthCoast Community Foundation allocates individual, family, and corporate funds to meet community needs. To date, the organization has distributed over $60 million from more than 200 funds to humanitarian, educational, and cultural organizations in the region.

Scholarship Resources

The SouthCoast Community Foundation is proud to offer scholarship opportunities to students in our community. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with more than $800k awarded to local students each year.

Most SouthCoast Community Foundation scholarships are available through our online scholarship portal. Unless otherwise noted, scholarships are available through the Universal Application, which automatically pairs eligible students with all available scholarships.

New Bedford Half Marathon Committee Scholarship

The New Bedford Half Marathon Committee Fund of the SouthCoast Community Foundation was established to provide college scholarships to graduating seniors who are runners participating in track, cross country or a related interscholastic athletic program from New Bedford High School, Dartmouth High School, or Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School.

Education - Higher Education Sports & Athletics

Core Research Grants: Immigration and Immigrant Integration

Russell Sage Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $200,000
The Russell Sage Foundation's Immigration and Immigrant Integration Grants aim to fund innovative research that explores the dynamics of race, citizenship, and legal status in relation to immigrant outcomes in the U.S. This initiative seeks to understand the complex interplay of policies and social factors affecting immigrants and native-born populations across various racial and ethnic groups. Researchers are encouraged to utilize diverse data sources to deepen insights into immigration integration and the societal implications of legal status.
Immigrant Services Immigration & Refugee Rights

Transaction Assistance Grant (TAG) Program

Connecticut Land Conservation Council
Corporate
Connecticut
Up to US $20,000
The Transaction Assistance Grant (TAG) Program, offered by the Connecticut Land Conservation Council, aims to enhance land conservation efforts by providing financial support for transaction-related costs. With applications accepted monthly, this program facilitates timely funding for land trusts, addressing immediate conservation needs efficiently. CLCC's commitment to fostering equity and environmental justice ensures that diverse communities benefit from enhanced access to open spaces and conservation resources, promoting a sustainable future for Connecticut's natural landscapes.
Land / Habitat Conservation

Iris M. Balthaser Adam Scholarship Fund

Berks County Community Foundation
Private
Berks County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Iris M. Balthaser Adam Scholarship Fund, established in 2014 by the Berks County Community Foundation, honors Iris M. Balthaser Adam, a dedicated teacher. This fund provides scholarships to high school seniors from Berks County, Pennsylvania, who plan to attend Kutztown University majoring in Elementary Education. Eligible students must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and demonstrate financial need. Preference is given to graduates of Hamburg Area High School, promoting local educational advancement.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Sailors' Snug Harbor of Boston: Special Three-Year Funding Initiative

Sailors Snug Harbor of Boston
Private
Barnstable County, Massachusetts, Bristol County, Massachusetts +6 more
Unspecified amount
Sailors' Snug Harbor of Boston has launched a Special Three-Year Funding Initiative aimed at enhancing social services for fishermen, their families, and low-income elders in Massachusetts' coastal communities. Grants up to $50,000 per year will be awarded to 501(c)(3) organizations to support innovative program approaches. The initiative prioritizes programs addressing the direct impacts of changes in the fishing industry and aims to prevent homelessness, ensuring vulnerable populations receive the necessary support.
Recreational Water Use & Boating

UC SAREP Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems Small Grants Program

University of California, Davis
State/Local Government
California
US $10,000 - US $20,000
The UC SAREP Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems Small Grants Program aims to support California's farmers and communities by promoting environmentally regenerative practices and enhancing food system resilience. It offers funding for projects that benefit diverse stakeholders, including education and outreach initiatives, applied research, and planning grants, all with a focus on cultural responsiveness and social equity. Grants range from $10,000 to $20,000, targeting priority groups and fostering collaboration.
Sustainable Agriculture & Agroecology

GRIP Dreamer Scholarship Fund

Berks County Community Foundation
Private
Berks County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The GRIP Dreamer Scholarship Fund, established by the Berks County Community Foundation in 2013, supports college scholarships for immigrants ineligible for federal or Pennsylvania financial aid. This fund aims to empower aspiring students in Berks County by providing crucial financial assistance. Eligible applicants include high school seniors and recent graduates under 30, with specific GPA requirements to ensure academic merit. Previous recipients must reapply annually to be considered for continued support.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Greg Prosseda Memorial Scholarship Fund

Berks County Community Foundation
Private
Berks County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Greg Prosseda Memorial Scholarship Fund, established in 2005 by the Berks County Community Foundation, provides scholarships to seniors from local school districts who intend to pursue higher education. Eligible applicants must have participated in their high school golf team and maintained a GPA of 2.5 or higher. This fund honors Greg Prosseda's memory while supporting students' academic and athletic ambitions.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

CNS Meeting Travel Awards

Society for Neuroscience
Association/Society
China
US $2,500
The CNS Meeting Travel Awards, provided by the Society for Neuroscience, support PhD candidates and postdocs from the U.S., Canada, and Mexico attending the CNS Annual Meeting in Xi'an, China, from September 25-28, 2025. Eligible applicants must be SfN members, first authors of submitted abstracts, and not currently receiving other travel awards. The award covers registration fees and offers a $2,500 travel stipend after proof of attendance.
Neuroscience

Racial Equity Fund of The County of Santa Barbara

The Fund for Santa Barbara
Private
Santa Barbara County, California
Up to US $50,000
The Racial Equity Fund of Santa Barbara supports initiatives that address racial injustice and promote equity. Born from grassroots activism, it allocates funds to strengthen organizations focused on anti-racism and systemic change. With a commitment of $500,000 from the County, the fund emphasizes collaboration with marginalized communities to foster participation in civic life. This ongoing support aims to reverse historical oppression and enhance capacity within the community, ensuring sustainability and impact for years to come.
Racial / Ethnic Justice & Rights

Service Learning Grants Program

Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation
Private
Chautauqua County, New York
Up to US $1,000
The Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation is offering Service Learning Mini-Grants aimed at Middle and High School teachers in northern Chautauqua County. These grants support projects that integrate community service with educational experiences, fostering civic responsibility among students. Eligible projects must include both a community service and a learning component, with funding available for various resources such as materials and technology. This initiative promotes local philanthropy and community development.
Volunteerism & Philanthropy

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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Local Grants by City

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