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Best Private Grants for Nonprofits

Explore private grants for nonprofits funding programs in education, health, community development, and the arts.

32,000+

Available grants

$9.00B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

32,000+ grants
$9.00B total
$6K median

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32,423 Results based on applied filters

The David Rutherford Award

The Nashville Bar Foundation
Private
Davidson County, Tennessee
Unspecified amount

The Nashville Bar Association

The Nashville Bar Association, established in 1831, is a professional organization serving the legal community of Nashville, Tennessee. The NBA—with over 2,500 members—is the largest metropolitan bar association in Tennessee.

NBA Mission: Advancing the legal profession and promoting justice by connecting, serving, and educating our members and the public. 

The David Rutherford Award

The Nashville Bar Foundation (NBF) is currently requesting nominations for the David Rutherford Award. This award will be given to a Fellow of the NBF who exemplifies the memory and ideals of David Rutherford, which include professionalism, charitable contributions in the legal field and in the community as a whole, and the spirit of collegiality among the bench and bar.

The Award shall be given at the Annual Fellows Dinner.

Legal Services Community Services

Fund for Columbia County: Seed Funding for Emerging Nonprofits

The Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation
Private
Columbia County, New York
US $1,000 - US $3,000
The Fund for Columbia County, established by Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, offers Community Impact grants to support innovative projects that enhance the quality of life for residents, particularly low-income and underserved populations. Grants range from $2,500 to $7,500 and focus on areas such as youth development, economic equity, and community engagement. This initiative encourages collaborative efforts among organizations to maximize impact and resource efficiency in Columbia County.
Child Welfare Services Community Services

William and Patricia Moises Scholarship

The San Diego Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,000 - US $5,000

In just one application, our Common Scholarship Application provides students access to more than 150 scholarship opportunities with awards ranging from $1,000 to more than $5,000.

In 2025, San Diego Foundation awarded a record-breaking $5.5 million in scholarships to nearly 1,400 students.

William and Patricia Moises Scholarship

Be current college/university students or community college students. Plan to enroll full-time at an accredited community college, four-year college or graduate school in fall.

Education - Higher Education Community Services

Italian-American Republican Club Scholarship

Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation
Private
United States
US $350

Through the generosity of fundholders and donors, NCCF has awarded more than half a million dollars in scholarships to assist students in Northwest Connecticut with the cost of higher education.

NCCF awards more than $530,000 in scholarships a year. 

Italian-American Republican Club Scholarship

Academic Focus:

  • Political science, government, history or pre-law

Award Average:

  • $350

For Torrington residents of Italian descent who are entering their junior or senior year at a college or university and are majoring in political science, government, history or pre-law

Law Political Science History

Jack and Jill of America Foundation Scholarship

United Negro College Fund Inc
Private
United States
Up to US $2,500

Jack and Jill of America Foundation Scholarship

The Jack and Jill of America Foundation Scholarship will provide need-based scholarships of up to $2,500 to service-oriented college freshmen who have completed a minimum of 60 hours of community service within the last 12 months. Awards will be issued in the 2025-2026 academic year, and may be renewed annually through the senior year.

The Jack and Jill of America Foundation is committed to the positive development of youth and future leaders. Through providing programs focused on financial literacy, education, mentoring, health and wellness, and early childhood development, the Foundation promotes the preparation of succeeding generations of leaders.

Education - Higher Education Community Services

Parish America 250 Program Mini Grants

Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities
Private
Louisiana
Up to US $1,500

Parish America 250 Program Mini Grants

In commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, the America 250 Louisiana State Commission, the Louisiana Office of the Lieutenant Governor, and the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities will be accepting letters of intent (LOIs) for the Parish America 250 Program Mini Grant. Grants of up to $1,500 will be available to support public humanities programming proposals that engage local audiences with Louisiana’s significant contributions to the founding and development of the United States.

The Louisiana America 250 Commission is dedicated to commemorating the 250th anniversary of our nation and Louisiana’s role in its establishment. The Parish America 250 Mini Grant program supports projects that engage with Louisiana’s significant contributions to the founding and development of the United States. 

Programs should engage local audiences with Louisiana history, foodways, folkways, music, and culture as they relate to the larger themes of the American Revolutionary era. All viable programs are encouraged to include the participation of qualified humanities scholar(s) where applicable. Programs must be free and open to the public.  

 LEH aims to reach all areas of the state and support organizations of all sizes and communities of benefit. 

Humanities & Social Science Arts / Culture Access & Participation

CFGV Creative Community Fund

Community Foundation of the Gunnison Valley
Private
Gunnison County, Colorado
Up to US $500
The CFGV Creative Community Fund, established in honor of former Director Maryo Gard Ewell, supports innovative projects that enhance the Gunnison Valley community. Through engaged philanthropy and strategic grantmaking, the fund aims to empower artistic initiatives that foster creativity and collaboration. By inviting proposals that think outside the box, the fund continues its mission of strengthening community ties and enriching local culture.
Community Services Arts / Culture Access & Participation

Advancement Grants

Door County Community Foundation
Private
Door County, Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
Advancement Grants are designed to foster collaborative initiatives that promote systemic change and enhance the quality of life in Door County. These grants support various projects aimed at improving community services, such as transportation and micro-lending for small businesses. By investing in comprehensive solutions, the Community Foundation seeks to bridge significant service gaps and empower organizations to create sustainable job opportunities, ultimately leading to a more resilient community.
Community Services Environment

Law Student Assistance Scholarship

The Community Foundation of Shelby County
Private
United States
Up to US $3,500

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Law Student Assistance Scholarship

Students entering their third year of law school (current second-year students approaching the third year).

Selection based upon:

  • Financial need, above-average law school academic achievement, and demonstrated leadership in undergraduate and law school activities and in community, school, and church.

Awards

  • Up to $3,500 in scholarships
Law Education - Higher Education

Zorn Blythe Aviation Scholarship

San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation
Private
San Luis Obispo County, California
Up to US $5,000
The Zorn Blythe Aviation Scholarship, offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, supports students pursuing careers in aviation. Established in memory of Zorn Blythe, who had a passion for airplane engines, this scholarship encourages aspiring aviators to explore opportunities in the field. The foundation administers numerous scholarships to help students achieve their educational goals, fostering an inclusive community where everyone can thrive.
Education - Higher Education Aviation

Bar Association of Washington County MD Endowment Fund

Community Foundation of Washington County Maryland
Private
Washington County, Maryland
Unspecified amount

Community Foundation of Washington County Maryland

We are one of more than 750 similar tax-exempt public charities throughout the United States that work to make their community a better place to live. We are a local organization staffed by residents of the community and led by a board of trustees who have an in-depth knowledge of the issues that shape our County.

This Community Foundation was created by and for the people of Washington County MD, and exists to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens, now and for generations to come, by building community endowments, addressing needs through grant making and providing leadership on key community issues.

Bar Association of Washington County MD Endowment Fund

Provides scholarships to qualifying high school, home school, private school, parochial school, college, or technical school students that plan to pursue, or are pursuing, a legal or paralegal certificate or degree. Applicants must demonstrate a high level of academic success and a commitment to community service. Graduate students may apply.

Academic Scholarship Programs Law

PLTW Engineering - New Program (PPG Industries)

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
Cuyahoga County, Ohio, Guilford County, North Carolina +1 more
US $15,000
The PLTW Engineering grant, funded by PPG Industries, aims to support schools in implementing PLTW Engineering programs for the 2025-2026 academic year. Eligible schools in Huntsville, AL, Greensboro, NC, and Cleveland, OH can apply for a total award of $20,000, distributed over two years. Schools must offer one PLTW course in the first year and another in the following year, ensuring a commitment to enhancing STEM education in their communities.
Engineering STEM / STEAM Education

NWF: Ecoleader Fellowship

The National Wildlife Federation
Private
United States
US $4,750
The National Wildlife Federation's Ecoleader Fellowship offers graduate students the opportunity to conduct impactful market research that enhances NWF's Education and Engagement programs. Selected fellows will receive a $5,000 stipend while developing vital skills, contributing to critical research goals aimed at understanding EcoLeader market segments, and analyzing best practices for environmental education initiatives. This fellowship not only supports individual career growth but also fosters a network of emerging leaders committed to sustainability.
Environmental Education Sustainability

Yinghsia Shih Li Memorial Scholarship

San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation
Private
San Luis Obispo County, California
Up to US $10,000

Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County

The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County is a resource for local charitable giving. Created by and for the people of San Luis Obispo County, The Community Foundation is an enduring source of charitable funds to meet the changing needs and interests of the region. We envision San Luis Obispo County as an inclusive haven where everyone, regardless of background, feels free to fully participate. In collaboration with our community partners and donors, we seek to foster a safe, respectful environment with ample opportunity for all to reach their potential and contribute to the success of our community.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation’s Scholarship Program was established in 2000 by generous individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to ensure students can pursue their educational dreams. We administer a variety of scholarships for high school seniors and college students. The program awards more than 65 scholarships totaling over $420,000. All scholarships have individual criteria, deadline and requirements.

Yinghsia Shih Li Memorial Scholarship

The purpose of the fund is to support young women graduating from Lucia Mar Unified School District pursue a career in science. 

Education - Higher Education Science

Florence Nesh Charitable Trust Grant

Florence Nesh Charitable Trust
Private
Alexandria City, Virginia, Arlington County, Virginia +22 more
Unspecified amount
The Florence Nesh Charitable Trust Grant focuses on supporting medical or scientific research and education in the Greater Washington DC area. It funds projects that provide direct services, demonstrate community needs, and foster collaboration among organizations. Eligible applicants must have a minimum of three years of operation and prior measurable outcomes. The trust prioritizes sustainability and diversified income, while avoiding support for general operating costs, for-profit entities, and organizations lacking public charity status.
Health & Medicine Science Education

Bloomfield Greater Together Community Fund Grant

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $500 - US $10,000
The Bloomfield Greater Together Community Fund Grant, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, aims to empower local organizations by providing financial support for projects that benefit Bloomfield residents. Eligible organizations must be classified as 501c3 or have a fiscal sponsor. The fund seeks to foster community ownership, encourage civic engagement, and strengthen the Hartford Foundation's presence in the town. This initiative is vital for building inclusive and vibrant communities in Greater Hartford.
Civic Engagement & Education Community Services

Muskegon Chapter, MI Society of Professional Engineers Scholarship

Community Foundation for Muskegon County
Private
Muskegon County, Michigan
Unspecified amount

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Muskegon Chapter, MI Society of Professional Engineers Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the Muskegon Chapter of the Michigan Society of Professional Engineers, who established the Michigan Society of Professional Engineers Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. This scholarship fund was established by the Muskegon Chapter of the Michigan Society of Professional Engineers to encourage young people who select this field of study by providing financial assistance for their education. This scholarship encourages young people who select this field of study by providing financial assistance for their education. The recipient of this award will have attended Muskegon Community College and completed sufficient technical and non-technical courses, so as upon transfer, to qualify as a third year (junior) status student. Through the creation of this Scholarship, the Muskegon Chapter of the Michigan Society of Professional Engineers will help hundreds of Muskegon County students attain lifelong educational goals.

Engineering Education - Higher Education

Clyde Fillmore Scholarship Endowment

Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation
Private
Texas
US $1,000

Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation

For over 25 years, the Community Foundation has remained committed to leaving a legacy for future generations by promoting philanthropy, providing charitable opportunities, and facilitating donors’ interests. We work alongside donors and community partners to help meet area needs, create solutions, and inspire action to build a vibrant community today and a stronger community for tomorrow. 

Scholarships

The Community Foundation is home to 50 scholarship funds established by generous individuals, organizations and businesses to help students from our community and surrounding areas pursue their dreams through education. 

Clyde Fillmore Scholarship Endowment

The Clyde Fillmore Scholarship was setup by the Wichita County Bar Association in 1998 at the Texas Bar Foundation, and moved to WFACF in 2012. It was established as tribute to an exceptional attorney and man, Clyde Fillmore. A World War II veteran and former POW in Burma and Thailand, Clyde had a deep appreciation for freedom and justice. After surviving torturous work during the war, Clyde was able to return home to Wichita Falls, his family, and his profession. He was elected as District Attorney, and later went into private practice to become an outstanding civil trial lawyer. Clyde practiced law for more than 70 years. The one-time $1,000 scholarship in his honor is open to current college students who graduated from a Wichita County high school, attending or applying to any law school in Texas. 

Law Education - Higher Education

The Guy Anson Waddel Charitable Trust Grant

Perpetual Guardian
Corporate
New Zealand
Unspecified amount
The Guy Anson Waddel Charitable Trust Grant, managed by Perpetual Guardian, aims to support charitable initiatives in the Southland region, specifically Invercargill and Bluff. With a focus on senior citizens, this grant provides vital resources to enhance the lives of the elderly community. Perpetual Guardian, a leader in estate planning, brings over 135 years of expertise to ensure that the wealth and legacy of its clients are protected and preserved, fostering positive change in the community.
Community Services Senior Services

BCD, Inc and J. Michael Salsman, PE Construction Scholarship

Central Kentucky Community Foundation
Private
Nelson County, Kentucky
Unspecified amount

Central Kentucky Community Foundation (CKCF) Scholarships 

We have been awarding scholarships for over 60 years to local students through the generosity of people like you who want to make educational opportunities available to more students. We are the largest awarder of scholarship funds in the region. In 2025, CKCF awarded 170 scholarships totaling over $373,000 to 126 local students. Just as education is critical to achieving community and economic development, scholarships are essential to further education. Scholarships expand our youth’s opportunities for educational advancement. This educational access facilitates life dreams and career options that lead to financial independence.

We work with donors who desire to make these opportunities available to people, students who can benefit from both the financial investment and personal empowerment from a scholarship award, and colleges and universities to streamline the process for both the donor and student.

Academic Scholarship Programs Engineering

Sonoma County Law Student Scholarship Fund

10000 DEGREES
Private
California
Up to US $10,000
The Sonoma County Law Student Scholarship Fund, established in 2024 by the Sonoma County Bar Association, offers financial support to law students from Sonoma County or its high school graduates enrolled in accredited law schools in California. This initiative aims to empower local students to pursue their legal education while strengthening community ties. Applicants are evaluated based on financial need, academic achievement, community involvement, and other relevant circumstances.
Law Academic Scholarship Programs

Ripley Community & Heritage Fund Grant

Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation
Private
Chautauqua County, New York
Up to US $1,000
The Ripley Community & Heritage Fund Grant aims to enhance the lives of Ripley residents through support for not-for-profit organizations. The grant prioritizes volunteer-led initiatives, historical preservation, and projects that yield measurable outcomes, while fostering collaboration among community groups. Eligible organizations must be certified not-for-profits or sponsored by fiscal agents, with projects benefiting the Ripley community. Applications are limited to one per grant cycle, ensuring focused support for impactful endeavors.
Community Services Historic Preservation

Maximizing Investigators’ Research Award (MIRA) for Early Stage Investigators (ESI)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Unspecified amount
The Maximizing Investigators’ Research Award (MIRA) for Early Stage Investigators (ESI) by NIGMS aims to enhance research productivity and flexibility for early career scientists. This program consolidates funding into a single award, allowing investigators to pursue ambitious projects while reducing administrative burdens. By supporting diverse research initiatives, MIRA helps cultivate a new generation of innovative researchers, ensuring essential breakthroughs in fundamental science.
Science Biology Health & Medicine

PCF Impact Grant

Pella Community Foundation
Corporate
Marion County, Iowa
Up to US $25,000
The PCF Impact Grant, offered by the Pella Community Foundation, aims to enhance community life in Pella through significant funding for impactful projects. Grants up to $25,000 are awarded annually to charitable organizations or governmental agencies addressing key local initiatives. The foundation seeks applications that demonstrate community need, collaboration, and sustainability, ensuring long-term benefits. This initiative not only preserves Pella's heritage but also engages the entire community, fostering a vibrant and inclusive environment.
Community Services Community Culture & Heritage

Unrestricted Community Grants

Hamilton Community Foundation (Ohio)
Private
Butler County, Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Unrestricted Community Grants, provided by the Hamilton Community Foundation, empower local organizations to address various community needs. Since 1951, generous donors have contributed to the foundation's funds, enabling grants that foster impactful projects within the greater Hamilton, Ohio area. These grants are vital for supporting tax-exempt organizations classified as 501(c)(3) charities. Applications are accepted annually, with a focus on significant community impact, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to enhance local services.
Community Services Economic Services & Development

Mike A. Myers Fellowship in Public Interest Law

William Wayne Justice Center for Public Interest Law
Private
Texas
Up to US $75,000
The Mike A. Myers Fellowship in Public Interest Law, supported by the William Wayne Justice Center, aims to enhance access to justice for underserved communities. This one-year fellowship funds a Texas Law graduate or judicial clerk to work with a nonprofit focusing on legal services for victims of domestic violence or sexual assault. Preference is given to candidates proposing to work with Texas Advocacy Project. The fellowship emphasizes collaboration with host organizations to ensure effective project supervision.
Law Legal Services

Charlye Farris Scholarship Endowment

Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation
Private
Texas
US $1,000

Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation

For over 25 years, the Community Foundation has remained committed to leaving a legacy for future generations by promoting philanthropy, providing charitable opportunities, and facilitating donors’ interests. We work alongside donors and community partners to help meet area needs, create solutions, and inspire action to build a vibrant community today and a stronger community for tomorrow. 

Scholarships

The Community Foundation is home to 50 scholarship funds established by generous individuals, organizations and businesses to help students from our community and surrounding areas pursue their dreams through education. 

Charlye Farris Scholarship Endowment

The Charlye Farris Scholarship was established as an endowment fund by the Wichita County Bar Association in 2001 to honor the life and accomplishments of Wichita Falls native, Charlye O. Farris. Charlye was valedictorian of the Booker T. Washington class of 1945 at age 15. She graduated from Prairie View A&M College at 18, and graduated from Howard University with a law degree in 1953. That same year, Charlye returned to Texas to pass the bar exam and become the first Black, female lawyer in Texas. She prevailed during the time of segregation, with odds against her, and achieved professional excellence as a practicing attorney in Wichita Falls for over 50 years, with peers citing her work ethic, courage, and principles as a model for all. The one-time $1,000 scholarship hosted by WFACF is for current college students who graduated from Wichita County high schools, attending or applying to any law school in Texas. 

Education - Higher Education Law

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.