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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

Henry E. Williams, Jr. Memorial Golf Award

Berks County Community Foundation
Private
Berks County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Henry E. Williams, Jr. Memorial Golf Award, established in 2002 by the Berks County Community Foundation, honors a professional golfer and provides scholarships for seniors from Berks County schools pursuing careers in golf management. Eligible students must plan to attend college for Professional Golf Management or PGA Club Professional School, or play on a college golf team. This initiative supports local talent while fostering educational opportunities in the golf industry.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs Golf

The Skatepark Project Grants

Tony Hawk Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,000 - US $25,000
The Skatepark Project Grants aim to support underserved communities in building public, free, concrete skateparks for youth. Eligible applicants include public charities and local agencies committed to designing inclusive spaces. The projects must engage local skaters in planning and fundraising, promote safety, and be open year-round without entry fees. The initiative fosters community involvement and addresses social inequalities, ensuring that all types of skatepark users can benefit from these vital recreational resources.
Parks & Public Spaces Youth Services

Plan Implementation Grant- Source Water Protection

Minnesota Department of Health
State/Local Government
Minnesota
US $1,000 - US $10,000
The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is providing funding to implement Source Water Protection (SWP) plans, including approved wellhead protection and surface water intake protection plans. This initiative, funded by Clean Water Fund appropriations, aims to assist Public Water Suppliers (PWSs) in executing their SWP measures effectively. Grants will also be available for PWSs without existing SWP plans to enhance water safety and sustainability throughout Minnesota.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Clinical Dental Education Innovation Grant Program

Minnesota Department of Health
State/Local Government
Minnesota
US $30,000 - US $150,000
The Clinical Dental Education Innovation Grant, awarded by the Minnesota Department of Health, aims to enhance dental training opportunities for underserved populations. This grant supports accredited institutions and clinical training sites in Minnesota to expand successful programs or develop new initiatives. It ensures that no service is denied due to inability to pay, thereby promoting access to essential dental care. Eligible applicants must be accredited training providers, and funds are strictly for operational costs related to approved programs.
Dental Health Medical Education & Professional Training

Youth Leadership Fund

Humboldt Area Foundation
Private
Curry County, Oregon, Del Norte County, California +2 more
Up to US $1,500
The Youth Leadership Fund, established by Sally and Rick Botzler, aims to foster youth leadership skills in underserved communities by supporting K-12 initiatives focused on environment, sustainability, and community responsibility. Grants of up to $1,500 are available for organizations that demonstrate measurable outcomes impacting youth and the local environment. The fund prioritizes projects reflective of diverse community needs and encourages collaboration with other partners.
Youth Development & Leadership

Raven Fund Scholarships

CIRI Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $3,500
The Raven Fund Scholarships, offered by the CIRI Foundation, support educational aspirations for CIRI voting shareholders who are not original shareholders or descendants. Award amounts include $200 per credit for full-time students, up to $3,000 per term, and similar support for part-time students. Funds cover tuition, fees, books, supplies, and housing. Applicants must have a high school diploma, be enrolled in an accredited program, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 to qualify.
Academic Scholarship Programs Education - Higher Education

World Childhood Foundation - Propose a Program

World Childhood Foundation Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The World Childhood Foundation aims to eradicate child sexual abuse and exploitation through innovative programs. Organizations eligible for funding must be based in the U.S. and focus on child safety, supportive environments, and responses to abuse. The grant does not support emergency relief, orphanages, or established program costs. Interested applicants should start the process 1-2 months prior to the deadline to ensure they can fulfill the necessary requirements, including a site visit.
Child Welfare Services Crime Victim Services

Wolf Livestock Compensation Grants (CA)

California Department of Fish and Wildlife
State/Local Government
California
Unspecified amount
The Wolf Livestock Compensation Grants (CA) provide financial assistance to livestock producers who have experienced confirmed wolf depredation. Initiated by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, this program received $600,000 in 2024 to support direct loss compensation. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis for those who meet eligibility criteria, ensuring that affected producers can receive timely support to mitigate their losses.
Livestock & Ranching

KACF: Community Grant

Korean American Community Foundation
Private
Bergen County, New Jersey, Bronx County, New York +28 more
Up to US $100,000
The Korean American Community Foundation (KACF) offers a community grant to support programs enhancing the economic security of low-income Korean Americans. This multi-year grant provides up to $100,000 annually for organizations focused on education, employment, and financial stability. KACF prioritizes partnerships that address the unique challenges faced by Korean Americans, fostering a culture of giving and community engagement to empower individuals and transform lives.
Asian American Services

Berks County Transition Coordinating Council Marty Kester Award

Berks County Community Foundation
Private
Berks County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Berks County Transition Coordinating Council Marty Kester Award, established by the Berks County Community Foundation, supports high school seniors with disabilities in Berks County. This award recognizes students for their resilience and determination as they transition from school to employment. It aims to empower these individuals in pursuing career paths that align with their skills and aspirations, helping them achieve their goals in a supportive community.
Disability Rights & Justice

Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Texas

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Texas
Up to US $1,000,000
The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Texas support eligible rural communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies that jeopardize safe drinking water. Events qualifying as emergencies include droughts, floods, and disease outbreaks. The grants can fund water transmission lines and new water sources, with funding up to $1,000,000. These efforts aim to restore access to clean water and enhance local environments, ultimately benefiting rural households and businesses.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Steinmetz Scholarships for Fieldwork Participation for Active/Reserve Military or Veterans

American Society of Overseas Research (ASOR)
Private
Armenia, Croatia +19 more
US $2,000
The Steinmetz Scholarships for Fieldwork Participation support U.S. military personnel and veterans in archaeological excavations. Established in 2019, these scholarships provide two awards of $2,000 each for participation in ASOR-affiliated projects. ASOR has a long history of funding archaeological research, having awarded over $1 million to more than 900 recipients since 2007. This initiative aims to broaden access to fieldwork opportunities for those who have served in the military.
Archaeology Military & Veterans Services

1st Financial Bank USA Scholarship

Siouxland Community Foundation
Private
Union County, South Dakota
US $1,000
The 1st Financial Bank USA Scholarship, established in 2021 by the Siouxland Community Foundation, aims to support graduating seniors from low to moderate-income families in Union County, South Dakota. This scholarship provides financial assistance for students pursuing post-secondary education at accredited colleges or universities. Eligible applicants include seniors from local high schools such as Alcester-Hudson and Beresford, ensuring that deserving students have the opportunity to further their education.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Pew Center for Arts & Heritage: Capacity Building Grants - Research and Travel Grants

Pew Charitable Trusts
Private
Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Chester County, Pennsylvania +3 more
US $2,000 - US $4,000
The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage offers Capacity Building Grants to support organizations in enhancing their professional capabilities within contemporary art and public history. Grants range from $2,500 to $7,500, focusing on research, travel, and technical assistance for grant proposal preparation. Eligible applicants include organizations with a 501(c)(3) designation in the Philadelphia region. Priority is given to those with operating budgets under $500,000 and first-time applicants.
Art & Culture History Art History

Executive Nurse Leadership Scholarship- Wharton Nursing Leaders Program Scholarship

Oncology Nursing Society
Private
United States
Up to US $8,000
The Wharton Nursing Leaders Program Scholarship, offered by the Oncology Nursing Foundation, supports nurse-managers aspiring to become chief nursing officers. This program, taking place from December 15-19, 2025, in Philadelphia, focuses on enhancing leadership skills through interactive sessions. Applicants must first be accepted into the program and meet specific eligibility criteria, ensuring that the scholarship aids those committed to advancing their careers in oncology nursing.
Nursing

Flight Crew United 232 Scholarship

Siouxland Community Foundation
Private
Woodbury County, Iowa
US $2,500
The Flight Crew United 232 Scholarship, established by the United 232 flight crew, honors the heroic rescue efforts during the Flight 232 incident in Siouxland. This scholarship aims to support graduating high school seniors from the Siouxland tri-state area who seek a post-secondary education in medical and health sciences. Eligible applicants must pursue careers in fields such as nursing, physician assistance, or medical technology at accredited institutions in Sioux City, Iowa.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

HCWGMW Donor Advised Fund Grant

North Carolina Community Foundation Inc
Private
Pasquotank County, North Carolina, Perquimans County, North Carolina
Unspecified amount
The HCWGMW Donor Advised Fund Grant supports initiatives aimed at breaking the cycle of poverty and homelessness among youth in Pasquotank and Perquimans counties. In 2024, $180,000 will be distributed to nonprofit organizations through an application process, with priority given to collaborative efforts. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and local governments. The fund emphasizes community benefit and disallows support for activities restricted to specific faiths or general operating costs for religious entities.
Youth Services Poverty Alleviation & Services

Dr. Roger F. & Anita R. Wendt Memorial Scholarship

Siouxland Community Foundation
Private
Woodbury County, Iowa
US $1,000
The Dr. Roger F. & Anita R. Wendt Memorial Scholarship, administered by the Siouxland Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Sioux City public high schools pursuing post-secondary education in education fields. Established in 2011 in memory of Anita and Dr. Wendt, this scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities for local students while strengthening the community's future. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and be committed to a career in education.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Washington Recreational Trails Grant Program

Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office
State/Local Government
Washington
Up to US $150,000
The Washington Recreational Trails Grant Program funds the rehabilitation and maintenance of trails, ensuring a backcountry experience free from human development. It supports diverse trail activities including hiking, biking, and motorized recreation. Typical projects involve clearing trails, repairing damage from natural events, and enhancing trail facilities. Grants are available up to $150,000, with a commitment to maintain facilities for 25 years. This initiative promotes environmental compliance and is open to various agencies and organizations.
Trail Creation & Maintenance

Kansas National Guard Educational Assistance

Kansas Board of Regents
State/Local Government
Kansas
Unspecified amount
The Kansas National Guard Educational Assistance program provides financial support for tuition and fees to eligible Kansas National Guard members. This program is available for both full-time and part-time students enrolled in accredited institutions across Kansas. To qualify, applicants must maintain good standing and have a high school diploma or GED. Important requirements include having a FAFSA on file and not holding a bachelor's degree. The funding is determined by the number of applicants and available appropriations.
Education - Higher Education Military & Veterans Services

Bellevue Heights Church Foundation Grant

Bellevue Heights Church Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Bellevue Heights Church Foundation, established over 30 years ago, has significantly contributed to humanitarian efforts and theological education by awarding millions in grants. Its Student Endowment Fund supports Master of Divinity students with monthly scholarships, benefiting 35 to 40 students annually. All church members can participate in the Foundation's governance, and grant recipients must provide updates on their projects. Applications must be submitted in hard copy, following specific guidelines.
Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid Christianity

RFI: Nursing Scholarships - John J. O'Connor Jr. Memorial Nursing Scholarship Fund

The Rhode Island Community Foundation
Private
Rhode Island
US $500 - US $10,000
The John J. O'Connor Jr. Memorial Nursing Scholarship Fund provides financial support to Rhode Island residents pursuing a CNA, Associates, or Bachelor's degree in nursing. Each year, the Foundation awards scholarships from various nursing funds, allowing applicants to apply for multiple programs with a single application. Awards range from $500 to $10,000, and past recipients can reapply, ensuring continued support for academic excellence and financial need.
Nursing

Kansas Osteopathic Medical Service Scholarship

Kansas Board of Regents
State/Local Government
United States
Up to US $41,000
The Kansas Osteopathic Medical Service Scholarship aims to attract primary care physicians to rural Kansas. It provides $41,000 annually for up to four years of study at accredited osteopathic schools. Recipients must commit to practice in designated underserved areas of Kansas for one year for each year of funding received. Eligibility requires residency in Kansas and completion of financial aid applications by specified deadlines.
Education - Higher Education Medical Education & Professional Training

Adult Protective Services Regional Administrative Agencies (RAA) NOFO

Illinois Department of Aging
State/Local Government
Illinois
Unspecified amount
The FY2026 Adult Protective Services Regional Administrative Agencies (RAA) NOFO provides funding for public or nonprofit agencies to oversee the Department on Aging's Adult Protective Services (APS) Program. Responsibilities include designating APS provider agencies, ensuring staff training, conducting quarterly meetings, and facilitating quality assurance. Eligible applicants are limited to Area Agencies on Aging unless otherwise designated. The program aims to enhance oversight and improve service delivery to vulnerable populations.
Disability Care & Services Senior Services

Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Utah

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Utah
Up to US $1,000,000
The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Utah support eligible communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies affecting safe drinking water availability. The program funds water transmission line grants of up to $150,000 for repairs and maintenance, and water source grants of up to $1,000,000 for constructing water facilities. This initiative aids rural areas and towns, fostering access to clean water following disasters and enhancing environmental quality.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Dean and Janice Butts Scholarship

Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc.
Private
United States
US $3,800
The Dean and Janice Butts Scholarship aims to support students pursuing post-secondary education, vocational training, or college, with a preference for students of color. This initiative is part of a broader commitment by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc. to address various community needs, including education and wellness, while fostering awareness and creative solutions to future challenges.
Vocational & Trade Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Trainee Professional Development Award

Society for Neuroscience
Association/Society
San Diego County, California
US $1,000 - US $2,500
The Trainee Professional Development Award (TPDA) supports undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral scholars exhibiting research excellence. Eligible candidates must be the presenting author of an approved abstract for SfN’s annual meeting. Recipients receive a travel stipend and complimentary registration for Neuroscience 2025, with obligations to present and participate in workshops. For those unable to attend in person, virtual registration is available. Awardees gain access to ongoing professional development opportunities, enhancing their academic growth.
Neuroscience

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.