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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

Marietta McNeill Morgan & Samuel Tate Morgan, Jr. Trust

Marietta McNeill Morgan & Samuel Tate Morgan, Jr. Trust
Private
Virginia
Unspecified amount
The Marietta McNeill Morgan & Samuel Tate Morgan, Jr. Trust, established in 1962, aims to enhance educational and human services in Virginia. It focuses on specific capital expenditures rather than general campaigns. The Trust encourages matching and challenge grants while excluding requests for debt reduction, scholarships, and funds for media production. Grants are not available to individuals or government agencies primarily funded by tax revenue, ensuring that resources are directed to impactful community projects.
Art & Culture Humanities & Social Science Education +1 more

NIH Support for Conferences and Scientific Meetings (Parent R13 Clinical Trial Not Allowed) (352846)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Unspecified amount
The NIH Support for Conferences and Scientific Meetings (R13) grant aims to facilitate high-quality conferences that contribute to public health and the scientific missions of NIH Institutes and Centers. Key application deadlines range from April 2024 to January 2027, providing vital opportunities for researchers to gather and share knowledge. This grant is particularly focused on enhancing the impact of scientific dialogue in critical health areas.
Health & Medicine Science Epidemiology & Public Health

Walter & Jessie Francisco Charitable Foundation Grant

Walter & Jessie Francisco Charitable Foundation
Private
Rock County, Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Walter & Jessie Francisco Charitable Foundation Grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations serving Janesville and Rock County, Wisconsin. Grants focus on areas such as arts and culture, education, human and social services, religious initiatives, and scientific endeavors. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations, while individuals are not permitted to apply. This grant aims to support community development and enhance the quality of life for local residents.
Education Religion & Spirituality Science +1 more

Slattery / Trueblood Professional Award

Iowa Parks & Recreation Association
Association/Society
Iowa
Unspecified amount

Our Mission

Founded in 1987, the Foundation has a mission to provide resources to deliver the benefits of parks and recreation to all.

Our Vision

To build a better Iowa through parks and recreation.

Slattery / Trueblood Professional Award

The highest professional award in IPRA, the Slattery/Trueblood Professional encompasses many traits. To be considered for this award, the nominee should be a person who has given of themselves as they work with their clientele. Their everyday life should exemplify outstanding, dedicated, and unselfish service to the profession, community, and to IPRA.

Any IPRA member in good standing may nominate candidates for each award. The nominees may be endorsed by other members of the IPRA with the exception of Awards Committee members. Awards Committee members may not nominate, sponsor, or write letters of support for nominees.

The nomination should be typewritten or legibly printed and include the appropriate information as stated for each award. Nominations should include any supporting data, such as letters of support, copies of news releases, etc. Each nomination must include the nomination cover sheet, as well as all applicable nomination criteria listed in this brochure.

Community Services Recreation Parks & Public Spaces

Alvah & Doris Veit Foundation Academic Grant

Alvah And Doris Veit Foundation
Private
Camden County, New Jersey
Approximately US $5,000
The Alvah & Doris Veit Foundation Academic Grant aims to support Camden, NJ high school graduates pursuing engineering degrees. Established in 2011, this charitable foundation awards grants based on proposals, with a median size of $5,000. Eligible applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, financial need, and community involvement. Grant funds can be used for tuition and educational materials, with applications reviewed quarterly. The foundation is dedicated to fostering academic achievement and community improvement among local students.
Engineering Education Education - Higher Education

Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Department of War (DoW) Multidisciplinary Research Program of the University Research Initiative (MURI)

US DOD: Dept. of the Air Force, Materiel Command
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $15,000,000
The FY 2027 Department of War Multidisciplinary Research Program of the University Research Initiative (MURI) aims to fund U.S. academic teams conducting innovative research to tackle complex challenges for the Department of War. Established in 1985, MURI promotes collaboration among diverse scientific disciplines, enhancing the defense workforce and addressing critical areas of interest through multidisciplinary research efforts at U.S. universities.
Engineering Education - Higher Education Science +1 more

Philippine Cultural Foundation of Hawaii Scholarship Fund

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Philippine Cultural Foundation of Hawaii Scholarship Fund supports Hawaii residents of Filipino ancestry pursuing higher education in Hawaii. Established in 2004, this fund prioritizes students who demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5, and intend to study fields related to culture, arts, or communications. The foundation encourages applications from previous recipients in good standing, ensuring continued support for eligible students committed to their academic and cultural studies.
Art & Culture Humanities & Social Science News Media & Communications

CFEW Community Outreach Grants

Catholic Foundation of Eastern Washington (CFEW)
Association/Society
Adams County, Washington, Asotin County, Washington +18 more
US $500 - US $10,000
The CFEW Community Outreach Grants support projects addressing the spiritual, physical, and emotional needs of communities in Eastern Washington. Grants range from $500 to $10,000 and prioritize organizations that contribute to local welfare. Examples of funded initiatives include assistance for housing and food, support for women in poverty, and programs aimed at reducing social isolation. This streamlined application process makes it easier for eligible organizations to receive vital funding for their outreach efforts.
Community Services Religion & Spirituality Women & Girl Services

Hanna H. Gray Fellows Program: Faculty Phase

Howard Hughes Medical Institute
Private
Puerto Rico, United States
Up to US $1,080,000
The Hanna H. Gray Fellows Program, supported by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, aims to enhance diversity in the academic research community. It provides funding of $250,000 and a $20,000 annual expense allowance for early-career researchers committed to fostering an inclusive scientific culture. Eligible applicants must hold a PhD or MD, commit to at least 75% research effort, and have no more than 24 months of postdoctoral experience. This initiative empowers fellows to become leaders in science.
Science Health & Medicine Medical Education & Professional Training

NSF NCAR Advanced Study Program (ASP) Graduate Visitor Program (GVP) Fellowship

University Corporation for Atmospheric Research
Private
Boulder County, Colorado
Up to US $7,500
The NSF NCAR Advanced Study Program (ASP) Graduate Visitor Program (GVP) Fellowship provides an enriching opportunity for graduate students to collaborate with NSF NCAR scientists on their research projects. It supports visits of 2 to 3 months, covering travel and housing costs. Eligible candidates include advanced Master’s and Ph.D. students focused on atmospheric sciences and related fields. The program encourages professional development through workshops and allows for potential extensions with co-sponsorship. Applications for the 2026 program are now open.
Engineering Earth Science Space Science +1 more

Testing Centers for Evaluation of Somatic Cell Genome Editing Approaches for Translational Applications (U42 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
US $580,000 - US $900,000
This funding opportunity invites applications for Testing Centers focused on evaluating somatic cell genome editing technologies for translational applications. These centers will provide essential resources and testing services to researchers, ensuring the efficacy and safety of novel genome editing methods. By developing innovative in vivo and in vitro models, the centers aim to enhance scientific rigor and reproducibility in biomedical research, ultimately supporting the advancement of therapeutics for human diseases.
Biology Genetics & Genomics Emerging Technology Development

Mini Grants for Libraries

Oregon Humanities
Private
Oregon
Up to US $4,000

About Oregon Humanities

Oregon Humanities is committed to bringing people together across differences of background, experience, and belief. Each year, we offer hundreds of public conversations and programs across the state, train and support dozens of discussion facilitators, and award grants and fellowships that help people connect, reflect, and cultivate a stronger sense of agency in their communities. In our magazine and on our website, we publish stories that explore the thoughts, perspectives, and experiences of Oregonians. Our long-term hope is that the work of Oregon Humanities will make broad and significant contributions to a more cohesive, inclusive, and imaginative democratic culture.

Mini Grants for Libraries

A grant for Oregon libraries to create and host events in their communities.

Purpose of this grant

Our Mini Grants for Libraries enable Oregon libraries to create and host events in their own communities around an annual theme that corresponds to our Consider This Conversations.

For 2027, Oregon Humanities will award $40,000 in funding to enable Oregon libraries to create and host events in their own communities. 

Events should reflect our 2027 theme: What Do We Trust? We live in a time of declining trust. According to the Pew Research Center, most Americans now say they do not trust government, media, or one another. Grantees are welcome to interpret this theme and develop topics that are relevant to their communities. Potential topics include, but are not limited to the following:

  • Why is trust so scarce? 
  • How do we decide who or what to trust? 
  • How is our trust in others affected by our circumstances, such as wealth, race, and where we live? (Oregonians are more likely than residents of other states to say that most people can be trusted. Why is that?) 

Applicants are encouraged to think about the concept of trust from various perspectives, including family, the economy, technology, civic life, and faith. 

Notes about grant funded activities

  • Programs can be in multiple languages or be in a language other than English. Grant reporting must be in English.
  • Programs can be hosted online or in-person.

Some activities that are commonly funded by this grant include: 

  • Community dialogues
  • Speaker events that include audience engagement
  • Interactive author presentations
  • Storytelling
  • Programming that connects exhibits to current experiences
  • Community-engaged interpretation of history, art history and theory, cultural history, or philosophy

Humanities & Social Science Civic Engagement & Education Library Services

Indiantown Community Trust Fund Program

Village of Indiantown
State/Local Government
Martin County, Florida
Unspecified amount

In July of 1991 Martin County Board of County Commissioners entered into a planned unit development (PUD) agreement for the development of the Indiantown Cogeneration Project. A condition of the PUD agreement required the establishment of the Indiantown Community Trust Fund with the interest from the trust fund used for projects which benefit the Indiantown community and have a general synergy with the Indiantown Cogeneration Project. The trust fund has been accruing interest since October 21, 1992. The committee annually reviews applications for proposed projects and makes recommendations for funding for the projects from the accrued interest of the trust fund subject to final approval by the Village Council.The trust income shall be used solely for projects benefiting Indiantown. Examples of such projects include, but are not limited to:

  • General training programs for local residents;
  • Day care facilities;
  • Recreation facilities;
  • Community center;
  • General community beautification projects; and
  • ‘Seed money’ for use in community programs for matching fund programs.
Community Services Recreation Greening & Beautification

Air Force Basic Research Sciences Conference and Workshop Support

US DOD: Dept. of the Air Force, Materiel Command
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
US $5,000 - US $100,000
The Air Force Basic Research Sciences Conference and Workshop Support program encourages proposals from U.S. institutions of higher education and nonprofit organizations for conferences and workshops that promote research and technology interchange. These events are vital for sharing recent findings and educational techniques in key scientific areas. The program specifically invites Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Minority-serving Institutions, and Tribal Colleges to participate, aiming to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among researchers.
Engineering Education - Higher Education Science +1 more

Makulinski Family Foundation Grant

Makulinski Family Foundation
Private
Adams County, Ohio, Afghanistan +282 more
Unspecified amount
The Makulinski Family Foundation Grant supports nonprofit and charity organizations, emphasizing sustainable community development. With a commitment to lasting change, MFF actively matches investments to amplify their impact, ranging from 10:1 to 1:2 based on beneficiary needs. The foundation welcomes proposals from various regions, including Ohio, Michigan, and South Carolina, and encourages applications that align with their mission. Interested parties can access the grant request form to submit their proposals.
Community Services Education Environment

Hanna H. Gray Fellows Program: Postdoctoral Training Phase

Howard Hughes Medical Institute
Private
Puerto Rico, United States
US $130,000 - US $154,382
The Hanna H. Gray Fellows Program, funded by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, aims to enhance diversity in the scientific community by supporting early-career researchers. The program provides funding for postdoctoral training and early faculty years, promoting an inclusive academic culture. Fellows receive an initial salary of $80,000 and a $20,000 annual expense allowance. This initiative helps develop future leaders in biological and biomedical sciences, ensuring equitable opportunities for all backgrounds.
Medical Education & Professional Training Science Health & Medicine

St. Margaret Foundation Grant

ST MARGARET FOUNDATION
Private
Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The St. Margaret Foundation Grant Program aims to enhance community health and wellness for those served by UPMC St. Margaret. It funds initiatives that bridge gaps in patient access, education, and experience, particularly in areas beyond typical healthcare services. Programs must align with the hospital's strategic goals and demonstrate measurable outcomes. Grants are available for one year only and do not support organizations without IRS tax-exempt status or those outside the UPMC St. Margaret service area.
Community Services Health & Medicine Wellness & Healthy Living

Continuation of the Exceptional Longevity Data Management and Coordinating Center (EL DMCC) (U24 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Unspecified amount
The National Institute on Aging (NIA) is announcing a funding opportunity to support the Exceptional Longevity Data Management and Coordinating Center (EL DMCC). This initiative aims to enhance the management of large, diverse datasets and facilitate collaborative research across NIA projects. Core functions include data integration, AI/ML infrastructure development, and maintaining the ELITE Portal for secure data access. This NOFO encourages innovative approaches to longevity research, though applications are not currently being solicited.
Biology Genetics & Genomics Emerging Technology Development

Signature Justice Grant

Kentucky Bar Foundation
Private
Kentucky
US $50,000

About the KBF

Guided by a clear purpose and a deep sense of responsibility, the Kentucky Bar Foundation is committed to fueling access to justice and expanding legal knowledge throughout the Commonwealth. We envision a Kentucky where justice is within reach for all and we bring that vision to life through values rooted in integrity, compassion, service, collaboration, and a commitment to continuous growth.

Signature Justice Grant

We award a $50,000 grant to support bold, innovative projects that create lasting improvements in access to justice and legal education across Kentucky.

About the Signature Justice Grant 

The Signature Justice Grant is a new opportunity from the Kentucky Bar Foundation to invest in bold ideas that have the potential to make a meaningful and lasting difference. 

Unlike KBF's regular annual grants, which support a broad range of important programs and services throughout Kentucky, the Signature Justice Grant is intended for a single transformative project. 

KBF is looking for projects that are new, innovative, or represent a substantial expansion of an existing initiative. The project should address a significant need and have the potential to improve access to justice or expand legal knowledge in ways that can continue beyond the grant period. 

The Signature Justice Grant is an additional grant opportunity and will not replace or reduce KBF's regular annual grantmaking.

KBF is looking for projects that think differently about how access to justice or legal education can be improved. An innovative or transformative project may introduce a new approach, technology, partnership, service model, or resource; significantly expand the reach or impact of an existing program; or address a longstanding need in a new and potentially more effective way. 

Law Social Justice / Human Rights Legal Services

The Shelby Foundation Grant

Shelby Ohio Community Foundation of Richland County
Private
Richland County, Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Shelby Foundation Grant aims to enhance community quality of life by providing financial assistance to 501(c)(3) organizations and government agencies. By supporting local schools and programs, the foundation seeks to foster a safe, prosperous environment for residents. The initiative focuses on one-time grants for specific purposes, excluding funding for annual operating expenses or projects tied to regular school curriculums, thus ensuring impactful community development.
Art & Culture Humanities & Social Science Health & Medicine +1 more

American Association of Law Libraries (AALL) Research Fund Grant

American Association of Law Libraries (AALL)
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $10,000
The American Association of Law Libraries (AALL) Research Fund Grant supports projects that enhance legal information services and law librarianship. With a funding cap of $5,000 per round, the grant encourages diverse scholarship in legal research. Eligibility includes individuals with relevant research experience, while preference is given to AALL members. Applications are reviewed biannually by a jury, ensuring that the most impactful projects receive support. This initiative aims to foster innovation and collaboration within the legal information community.
Legal Services Library & Information Science Law

Bloomberg Data Science Ph.D. Fellowship

Tech at Bloomberg
Corporate
New York, United Kingdom
US $45,000
The Bloomberg Data Science Ph.D. Fellowship invites exceptional doctoral students to apply for support in groundbreaking research for the 2024-2025 academic year. The fellowship covers full tuition and provides a stipend of $42,000, along with mentorship and internship opportunities. Applicants must be full-time students with a graduation date by 2027 and must complete a 14-week research internship. This prestigious fellowship aims to foster innovation in AI/ML research and contribute to the field's advancement.
Data Science & Digital Information Systems Artificial Intelligence (AI) Computer Science & Engineering

NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts (NIAC) Phase I (363983)

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $225,000
The NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts (NIAC) Phase I program invites proposals for groundbreaking aerospace concepts, aiming to transform potential in aeronautics. This initiative supports innovative research through multiple award phases, focusing on Phase I requirements and evaluation criteria. A virtual forum will be held on October 7, 2026, to discuss the Appendix’s details and clarify submission guidelines. Additional information will be available on the NSPIRES page, ensuring participants are well-informed about the process.
Aerospace Engineering Space Science Emerging Technology Development

Andover Greater Together Community Fund Grant

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Tolland County, Connecticut
Up to US $12,000
The Andover Greater Together Community Fund Grant aims to empower local organizations by providing financial support ranging from $250 to $10,000. Established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, this initiative encourages civic engagement and community ownership of local needs. It invites registered nonprofits and the Town of Andover to apply, fostering growth in philanthropy and volunteerism within the Greater Hartford region. This funding opportunity addresses community priorities while enhancing awareness of local challenges and opportunities.
Community Development & Revitalization Community Services Youth Services

Perry Dean and Alice Graham Charitable Foundation Grant

Perry D. and Alice H. Graham Trust
Association/Society
Texas
Unspecified amount
The Perry Dean and Alice Graham Charitable Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) organizations in Texas, with a special focus on Navarro County. Established in 1987, the foundation aims to enhance community welfare through grants in Arts, Culture, Education, and Human Services. Organizations must have operating budgets under $20 million to qualify for funding, ensuring that support reaches smaller, impactful entities dedicated to charitable purposes.
Art & Culture Humanities & Social Science Education +1 more

Crystelle Waggoner Charitable Trust

Crystelle Waggoner Charitable Trust
Private
Texas
US $15,000 - US $40,000
The Crystelle Waggoner Charitable Trust supports charitable organizations in the arts and social services, with a focus on those operating in Tarrant County. Established by Crystelle Waggoner, the trust provides grants ranging from $15,000 to $40,000. Eligible organizations must have been in existence since before January 24, 1982, and must wait one grant cycle before reapplying for funding. The trust aims to continue Waggoner's legacy of supporting the community.
Art & Culture Humanities & Social Science Health & Medicine +1 more

Gregg E. Hosack Scholarship Endowment

John Randolph Foundation Inc
Private
Charles City County, Virginia, Chesterfield County, Virginia +8 more
Up to US $1,000
The Gregg E. Hosack Scholarship Endowment aims to support residents of the City of Hopewell and nearby areas pursuing higher education. Established in memory of Gregg E. Hosack, the scholarship awards $1,000 to eligible applicants based on academic achievement, financial need, and community involvement. Applicants must provide necessary documentation, including transcripts and letters of recommendation, to demonstrate their commitment to education. This scholarship encourages individuals to achieve their academic goals while honoring Mr. Hosack's legacy of service and support.
Education - Higher Education Community Services Civic Affairs

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.