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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

RFI: Nursing Scholarships - Albert E. and Florence W. Newton Nursing Scholarship

The Rhode Island Community Foundation
Private
Rhode Island
US $500 - US $10,000
The Albert E. and Florence W. Newton Nursing Scholarship supports nursing students, offering awards ranging from $500 to $10,000. Eligible applicants include Rhode Island residents and students from outside the state attending nursing programs in Rhode Island. Past recipients may reapply, providing ongoing support for those dedicated to advancing their nursing education. This scholarship is part of a broader initiative by the Rhode Island Community Foundation to enhance nursing education and accessibility.
Nursing

CPIC Scholars Program

Rare Diseases Clinical Research Network (RDCRN)
Federal Government
United States
Unspecified amount
The CPIC Scholars Program, part of the Rare Diseases Clinical Research Network (RDCRN), offers education and career development opportunities for early-stage faculty and fellows. This initiative aims to foster the research careers of the next generation, focusing on congenital cytomegalovirus, neonatal herpes simplex virus, and enterovirus sepsis. Scholars engage in research projects and participate in CPIC Scholar Circles, enhancing their professional skills and knowledge in rare disease research.
Rare Diseases

Kansas Teacher Service Scholarship

Kansas Board of Regents
State/Local Government
Kansas
Up to US $33,330
The Kansas Teacher Service Scholarship is a merit-based program offering financial assistance to students pursuing bachelor's or master's degrees in hard-to-fill disciplines. Recipients must agree to teach in Kansas for each year of scholarship support, with eligibility extending for up to ten semesters. Priority is given to upperclassmen and renewals, with funding dependent on state allocation. The average GPA of past recipients is 3.50, and the scholarship amount can reach $6,666 per academic year.
Education - Higher Education Teacher Development & Training

Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Puerto Rico

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Puerto Rico
Up to US $1,000,000
The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Puerto Rico aim to assist eligible communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies that threaten safe drinking water. Events qualifying as emergencies include droughts, floods, and chemical spills. The grants can be used for constructing water sources or repairing existing water distribution lines, with funding up to $1 million. This program is vital for ensuring access to clean water in rural areas following disasters.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Dewey Wells Citizenship Fund

North Carolina Community Foundation Inc
Private
Avery County, North Carolina
US $500 - US $1,000
The Dewey Wells Citizenship Fund, established by Judge Dewey Wells at the North Carolina Community Foundation, aims to promote good citizenship and character among the youth of Avery County. This Endowment supports organizations that instill values such as honesty, integrity, and personal responsibility. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and local governments, with a focus on providing programs for youth from financially disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring inclusivity and community benefit.
Youth Services Family Services

Sarum St. Michael Educational Charity: Organisation Grants

Sarum St. Michael Educational Charity
Private
United Kingdom
£50 - £2,500
The Sarum St. Michael Educational Charity supports religious education through grants aimed at individuals and organizations, particularly within the Salisbury Diocese. It funds projects that enhance teaching in Religious Education, assist in further education, and promote the advancement of religious education. Eligible applicants include schools, churches, and nonprofits that align with the charity's mission. The program also emphasizes future-oriented projects, while retrospective applications are not accepted.
Teacher Development & Training Religious / Theological Education

PIDS Foundation: Apprenticeship Program

PIDS FOUNDATION
Private
United States
More than US $5,000
The PIDS Foundation's Apprenticeship Program fosters early-career pediatric infectious diseases physicians, enhancing their skills in academic publishing. Named in honor of Ralph D. Feigin, the program offers junior faculty members the opportunity to engage with the editorial process of the Journal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society. Recipients will contribute to manuscript discussions and special projects, committing approximately four hours weekly. The award will be presented during the PIDS Annual Membership Meeting at IDWeek 2025, with the term spanning October 2025 to October 2026.
Writing & Literature Children’s Health & Pediatrics

Diane M. Dempster-Gross Memorial Music Scholarship

Siouxland Community Foundation
Private
Woodbury County, Iowa
US $1,000
The Diane M. Dempster-Gross Memorial Music Scholarship, established in 2019 by family and friends in memory of Diane, aims to support graduating seniors from East, North, or West High Schools in Sioux City, Iowa. This scholarship is dedicated to music majors pursuing post-secondary education at accredited colleges or universities. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and have participated in music-related extracurricular activities.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Ben Uhl & Sarah Murray Family Scholarship

Siouxland Community Foundation
Private
Cherokee County, Iowa, Plymouth County, Iowa +2 more
More than US $1,000
The Ben Uhl & Sarah Murray Family Scholarship, established in 2020 by the Siouxland Community Foundation, aims to support high school seniors from select Iowa and Nebraska counties in pursuing a 4-year degree at accredited colleges. This scholarship reflects a commitment to educational advancement for employees, their families, and community members, fostering a legacy of personal growth and opportunity for future generations.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

RFI: Nursing Scholarships - Alumnae Association of Newport Hospital School of Nursing Scholarship

The Rhode Island Community Foundation
Private
Rhode Island
US $500 - US $10,000
The Alumnae Association of Newport Hospital School of Nursing Scholarship offers financial support to Rhode Island residents pursuing nursing education. Applicants can apply for this scholarship as part of a broader application for nine nursing funds. Award amounts range from $500 to $10,000, and all recipients must reapply for renewals. This initiative aims to enhance nursing education and address the healthcare needs of the community.
Nursing

RFI: Nursing Scholarships - Willard and Marjorie Scheibe Nursing Scholarship

The Rhode Island Community Foundation
Private
Rhode Island
US $500 - US $10,000
The Willard and Marjorie Scheibe Nursing Scholarship, offered by the Rhode Island Community Foundation, supports Rhode Island residents pursuing LPN, RN, or advanced nursing degrees. This scholarship considers financial need and allows past recipients to reapply. Award amounts range between $500 to $10,000, and applicants can use a single application for multiple nursing funds, streamlining the process for qualifying individuals.
Nursing

A+ Scholarship Program (MO)

Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development
State/Local Government
Missouri
Unspecified amount
The A+ Scholarship Program, managed by the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development, offers financial assistance to graduates of A+ designated high schools who enroll in participating community colleges or vocational schools. This merit-based scholarship covers tuition and fees after non-loan federal aid has been applied, and eligibility requires maintaining academic standards and fulfilling certain attendance and mentorship criteria. It supports students in achieving educational and career success.
Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Rhode Island

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Rhode Island
Up to US $1,000,000
The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Rhode Island support eligible communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies that compromise safe drinking water availability. Events such as droughts, floods, and chemical spills qualify for assistance. Grants can fund projects like waterline extensions or treatment facilities, with amounts reaching up to $1 million. This initiative aims to restore access to clean water and promote environmental sustainability in rural areas.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Tennessee

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Tennessee
Up to US $1,000,000
The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Tennessee provide crucial funding to eligible communities for preparing and recovering from water emergencies. With grants of up to $1,000,000 for water sources and $150,000 for repairs, the program aims to ensure safe drinking water access after disasters like floods or droughts. Open to various applicants, including local governments and nonprofits, this initiative supports rural areas, enhancing both environmental restoration and community resilience.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Anderson Ranch’s Artists-in-Residence Program

Anderson Ranch Arts Center
Private
Colorado
Unspecified amount
Anderson Ranch’s Artists-in-Residence Program, established in 1966, supports the creative growth of emerging and established visual artists in Aspen, Colorado. The program provides access to world-class facilities, studio time, and community engagement with peers and critics. Artists can pursue diverse projects in various disciplines, including ceramics and photography. Residencies are offered in Spring and Fall, with options for fully funded fellowships. This unique environment fosters artistic exploration and professional development.
Artist Residencies

HAF: Patient Assistance Grant

Hemophilia Alliance Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $8,000
The HAF: Project/Patient Assistance Grant, established by the Hemophilia Alliance Foundation, aims to empower eligible organizations to enhance their capacities and provide direct financial assistance to consumers. With funding ceilings of $8,000 for local organizations and $10,000 for national entities, it supports initiatives that improve service delivery and patient assistance, reflecting a commitment to the hemophilia and inheritable blood disorders communities.
Hematological Systems

Dance Workforce Resilience (DWR) Fund

Dance/NYC
Private
Bergen County, New Jersey, Hudson County, New Jersey +5 more
US $1,000
The Dance Workforce Resilience (DWR) Fund, established by Dance/NYC, provides one-time grants of $1,000 to support freelance dancers in the NYC area. With a total of $324,000 available, this fund aims to assist over 320 dancers who have completed contracted work between January 1, 2025, and April 30, 2026. Eligibility includes being 18 or older and residing in the metropolitan NYC area. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until March 2026.
Dance

Grand Haven Fdn- Technical Assistance Grant

Grand Haven Area Community Foundation
Private
Ottawa County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Grand Haven Area Community Foundation offers a Technical Assistance Grant aimed at strengthening nonprofit organizations' internal capacities and enhancing the effectiveness of their programs. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations or government units serving Northwest Ottawa County or greater West Michigan. The grant supports activities that promote sustainability and impact, excluding general operating support and equipment purchases. Applications are accepted anytime, with a recommended preliminary discussion with the Foundation.
Business Development

International Experience Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The International Experience Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in Education, Health, and Human Development. It encourages participation in MSU or EHHD Study Abroad Programs, allowing for international travel during fall, spring, or summer semesters. This scholarship aims to enhance educational experiences and cultural understanding, providing critical financial assistance to incoming students. By fostering global connections, MSU empowers students to transform their lives and communities through enriched educational opportunities.
Education - Higher Education Cross-Cultural Understanding & Exchanges

RFI: Nursing Scholarships - Edward J. and Virginia M. Routhier Nursing Scholarship

The Rhode Island Community Foundation
Private
Rhode Island
US $500 - US $10,000
The Edward J. and Virginia M. Routhier Nursing Scholarship, offered by the Rhode Island Community Foundation, supports licensed RNs pursuing baccalaureate or graduate degrees in nursing. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and can reapply if they were past recipients. Award amounts range from $500 to $10,000, and a single application covers multiple nursing funds, providing accessibility for qualified candidates in Rhode Island.
Nursing

RFI: Nursing Scholarships - Lillian Sparfven & Ethel Ferrara Fund Scholarship

The Rhode Island Community Foundation
Private
Rhode Island
US $500 - US $10,000
The Lillian Sparfven & Ethel Ferrara Fund Scholarship, offered by the Rhode Island Community Foundation, provides financial support for Rhode Island residents pursuing nursing degrees. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and be enrolled in accredited programs for LPN, RN, or advanced nursing degrees. The scholarship amounts range from $500 to $10,000, with a preference for those planning to practice in Rhode Island after graduation. Past recipients can reapply.
Nursing

New California Library Literacy Services Libraries Application

California State Library
State/Local Government
California
US $25,000 - US $75,000
The California Library Literacy Services grant offers funding to public libraries in California to develop adult literacy programs. This initiative aims to enhance literacy levels among adults, enabling them to achieve personal and professional goals. Libraries participating in this program will receive annual funds to support continuous literacy efforts, fostering a more literate community. The grant is aimed at addressing the urgent need for adult literacy improvement across the state.
Adult Education Literacy

Community Foundation of San Carlos Grant

Community Foundation of San Carlos
Private
San Mateo County, California
US $2,000 - US $15,000
The Community Foundation of San Carlos, established in 2019, aims to enhance the quality of life in San Carlos through community-driven initiatives. With a $2M endowment, it supports nonprofits focused on sustainable solutions for local needs. The 2025 Grant Round prioritizes organizations that directly improve community well-being. Eligible applicants should have operating budgets under $1.5 million and demonstrate their impact. The foundation emphasizes general operating support to empower nonprofits in fulfilling their missions.
Basic Human Needs Economic Services & Development

Homelessness Diversion Program Grant (WA)

Washington State Department of Commerce
State/Local Government
Washington
Up to US $280,000
The Homelessness Diversion Program Grant in Washington aims to provide essential funding for diversion services to nonprofits and Tribal Governments, focusing on families and individuals facing housing crises. By prioritizing marginalized communities, including BIPOC and those with disabilities, the program addresses homelessness with low-barrier, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive solutions. This initiative is vital to reducing inflow into the homeless crisis response system, ensuring that everyone has access to safe and affordable housing.
Homelessness Services

The Role of Work in Health Disparities in the U.S. (R01 Clinical Trials Optional) (357379)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Unspecified amount
This grant opportunity aims to advance research on how work impacts health disparities among U.S. populations. It invites innovative proposals that explore the interplay between occupation and health outcomes, particularly in communities experiencing health and healthcare inequalities. Deadlines for applications span from February 2025 to October 2027, encouraging timely submissions for various categories including standard and AIDS-related grants.
Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health

Kansas Education Opportunity Scholarship

Kansas Board of Regents
State/Local Government
Kansas
Up to US $1,850
The Kansas Education Opportunity Scholarship supports first-generation college students and dependents of educators in Kansas, providing financial assistance of up to $1,850 annually. Applicants must be Kansas residents enrolled in eligible undergraduate programs and demonstrate financial need through the FAFSA. Priority is given to high school seniors entering college for the first time. This scholarship aims to foster educational access for those who might otherwise face barriers in their pursuit of higher education.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

The Allan S. and Maureen A. Costello Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc.
Private
Chemung County, New York
US $1,000
The Allan S. and Maureen A. Costello Memorial Scholarship aims to address contemporary needs through diverse funding avenues and community awareness. This unique foundation focuses on the holistic well-being of the community, encompassing education, arts, infrastructure, animals, the environment, and wellness. By fostering creative solutions, the scholarship not only supports individual aspirations but also nurtures the collective growth of the community, ensuring a brighter future for all.
Adult Education Poetry

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.