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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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32,545 Results based on applied filters

JetBlue Foundation Grants

Jetblue Grants Foundation
Corporate
Ada County, Idaho, Albany County, New York +115 more
Up to US $50,000
The JetBlue Foundation is dedicated to enhancing aviation-related education and STEM initiatives, aiming to inspire future aviation leaders. Offering grants up to $50,000, it supports educational organizations that focus on aviation technology, engineering, operations, and maintenance. The foundation prioritizes programs benefiting under-represented communities in aviation, including veterans, women, and diverse groups, ensuring a broader range of voices in the industry.
Aviation STEM / STEAM Education

C.L. Clark Scholarship

Greater Salina Community Foundation
Private
Kansas
Unspecified amount

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

  • Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
  • Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
  • Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
  • Promoting community philanthropy through education
  • Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
  • Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Scholarship Program

The community foundation offers a wide variety of scholarships for students, provided by the generosity of local donors. Whether you are a high school senior, a current college student, or a non-traditional student we work with donors to help you take the next step in your education.

C.L. Clark Scholarship

For graduates of a Saline County, KS, high school attending the University of Kansas School of Law or Washburn University School of Law.

Background

C.L. Clark was a native Kansan. Born in Paxico in 1908, he graduated from Washburn Law School in 1931, and practiced law for 53 years in Salina. He and James P. Mize were the co-founders of the Salina law firm of Clark, Mize & Linville, Chartered. During his career, Mr. Clark was recognized as a leading banking, business, tax, and corporate attorney. He was heavily involved in community activities, serving on the boards of numerous civic organizations, and he also served as Salina’s city attorney in the late 1940s and early 1950s. Mr. Clark passed away in 2004 at the age of 96. He was at one and the same time a very passionate and compassionate man, constantly championing the rights of minorities and the underprivileged. This scholarship is given in the hopes that the recipients will use it to further not only their legal educations, but also the standards of excellence maintained by Mr. Clark on a daily basis for over half a century – legal skills, integrity, character, credibility, ethics, and compassion for the less fortunate.

Geographic Limitations

  • Graduates of a Saline County High School attending the University of Kansas School of Law or the Washburn University School of Law

Renewals

  • Previous scholarship recipients are eligible to re-apply as part of the total applicant pool as long as they meet the above criteria.

Education - Higher Education Law

Faerie L. Angle Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Foundation for Enhancing Communities
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Faerie L. Angle Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Foundation for Enhancing Communities, provides scholarships to aspiring lawyers from Franklin County, PA. Eligible candidates must have been accepted into a three-year J.D. program, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 to 3.5, and demonstrate financial need. This initiative aims to support local talent in pursuing legal education and fostering community engagement through the legal profession.
Law Education - Higher Education

PLTW Engineering- Program Expansion ( Indiana)

Project Lead the Way inc.
Private
Indiana
US $15,000
The PLTW Engineering Program Expansion in Indiana aims to enhance educational opportunities through the Step Up Indiana STEM Grant. Schools can utilize a total award of $15,000 to implement new PLTW programs or expand existing ones for the 2026-2027 academic year. Eligible uses include additional courses, class periods, and teacher training, while ensuring that funds are allocated effectively to support STEM education initiatives.
Engineering Teacher Development & Training Curriculum Development

Lifetime Achievement Award

National Council of Teachers of Mathematics
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), recognizes individuals for their exceptional contributions to mathematics education over a lifetime. Established in 1994, this prestigious honor celebrates those who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, teaching, and service in the field. Eligible nominees must have at least 25 years of distinguished service and may receive the award posthumously, reflecting their lasting impact on the profession.
Mathematics STEM / STEAM Education

Affiliate Grant – Kenneth B. Cummins Grant for Partner Affiliates

National Council of Teachers of Mathematics
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $3,500
The Affiliate Grant – Kenneth B. Cummins Grant for Partner Affiliates, offered by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, supports creative projects that enhance the visibility of mathematics teachers and their affiliates. Eligible applicants must be NCTM associate affiliates in good standing and address significant needs in their mathematical communities. Projects should be innovative and completed within a specified timeframe. This grant fosters collaboration and engagement in mathematics education.
Mathematics STEM / STEAM Education

Affiliate Grant – Associate Affiliates

National Council of Teachers of Mathematics
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $2,500
The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics offers the Affiliate Grant for Associate Affiliates to enhance mathematics education. This grant supports innovative projects that align with NCTM's Strategic Framework, aiming to improve visibility and engagement within the educational community. Eligible applicants must be in good standing and address significant needs in their mathematical communities. The project activities should be unique and completed within the academic year from August 1 to July 31.
Mathematics STEM / STEAM Education

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

OVPR Special Research Grants

University Of Texas At Austin
Private
Texas
Up to US $2,000
The OVPR Special Research Grants at the University of Texas at Austin offer up to $2,000 for tenured and tenure-track faculty to support specific research projects. Applications will be accepted from September 1, 2025, until August 15, 2026, or until funding is exhausted. These competitive grants are designed for unanticipated costs and are limited to two awards per faculty member in a five-year span. Early submissions enhance funding chances.
Science STEM / STEAM Education

Bob Kelly Scholarship

The San Diego Foundation
Private
San Diego County, California
Up to US $10,500

Bob Kelly Scholarship

During his 20 years as President and CEO of San Diego Foundation (SDF), Bob Kelly built an enduring legacy that has seen SDF become the regional leader for information about charitable giving and a strong voice for civic engagement. Among a number of significant achievements as President and CEO, Bob was instrumental in building the Community Scholarship Program which is now the largest scholarship provider in San Diego County outside of the university system.

When establishing his own scholarship, Bob wanted to recognize the important role that both San Diego City College and UC San Diego play in the education of so many San Diegans. His hope is to provide a unique scholarship opportunity to those students who may not have been the top of their class, but have since taken advantage of their own “second chance” and are on the path to success.

This scholarship may be used for tuition, books, fees, room & board, and other educational expenses.

The scholarship may be renewable (depending upon available funds) for up to two years of undergraduate coursework at UC San Diego provided the student maintains a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale, good citizenship, and continues to have financial need.

  • Average number of awards: 2
  • Average amount: $3,500
Education - Higher Education Community Services

Northwestern University Publication Subvention Grants

Northwestern University
Private
United States
Up to US $1,000
The Northwestern University Publication Subvention Grants support eligible faculty and graduate students with production costs or translation expenses for published works. Applicants must have a formal publication contract for a book or journal article. Priority is given to tenure-track assistant professors, and only one grant is allowed per year. Non-allowable expenses include travel, advertising, and the purchase of copies. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until funds are depleted.
Humanities & Social Science Writing & Literature

Luce/ACLS Collaborative Grant in China Studies

American Council of Learned Societies
Association/Society
Canada, United States
Up to US $120,000
The Luce/ACLS Collaborative Grant in China Studies offers up to $150,000 for innovative pilot activities aimed at addressing pressing challenges in China Studies over 12 to 18 months. The grant encourages collaborative proposals that enhance teaching resources, develop open-access materials, and promote professional development. Successful projects may lead to new networks, sustainability plans, or white papers. This initiative aims to foster transformative change within the academic community focused on China.
Humanities & Social Science Teacher Development & Training

George M.A. Hanfmann, Ilse B. Hanfmann, and Machteld J. Mellink Fellowships

American Research Institute in Turkey
Private
United States
US $15,000 - US $45,000

The American Research Institute in Turkey and the Türk-Amerikan Ilmi Arastırmaları Derneği are pleased to announce the Ilse Böhlund Hanfmann, George Maxim Anossov Hanfmann, and the Machteld Johanna Mellink Fellowships for 2026. The purpose of these fellowships is to enable nationals of the Republic of Türkiye who are PhD students at Turkish universities working on their PhD theses, or recent PhD holders and currently in Türkiye working towards a career in Türkiye, to conduct research in affiliation with universities or research institutions abroad (in North America or elsewhere) for a period ranging from three to nine months.

Humanities & Social Science STEM / STEAM Education

Keystone Grants for Public Library Facilities

Pennsylvania State Library - Office of Commonwealth Libraries
State/Local Government
Pennsylvania
Up to US $750,000
The Keystone Grants for Public Library Facilities, administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Education's Office of Commonwealth Libraries, support public libraries in planning, acquiring, constructing, or rehabilitating their facilities. Grants cover up to 50% of eligible costs for projects like ADA upgrades and energy-efficient renovations. Matching funds are required, and grants are awarded competitively based on established criteria. This program aims to enhance library services and resources for Pennsylvania residents.
Library Services Technology Access & Digital Literacy Engineering

Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) (T32)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Unspecified amount
The Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) aims to cultivate a diverse group of physician-scientist leaders to address the nation's biomedical research needs. This program supports institutions in creating integrated dual-degree training that results in both medical and research doctorate degrees. By combining clinical practice with scientific research, MSTP graduates will advance health-related research, focusing on improving training effectiveness, alumni retention in research careers, and workforce diversity. NIGMS emphasizes comprehensive training elements for impactful careers.
Medical Education & Professional Training Science

JSI Scholarship

Foundation for Rural Service
Private
United States
US $5,000
The JSI Scholarship, provided by the Foundation for Rural Service, awards $5,000 to four high school seniors interested in science, math, medicine, or engineering. Sponsored by a member of NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association, recipients are encouraged to return to rural communities after graduation. This initiative aims to enhance rural life through education and support, promoting the development of future leaders in essential fields.
Engineering Mathematics Science +1 more

Borchard Fellowship in Law & Aging

Albert And Elaine Borchard Foundation Inc
Private
United States
Up to US $140,000
The Borchard Foundation Fellowship in Law and Aging offers two-year fellowships for law school graduates pursuing careers in law and aging. The fellowship provides $62,000 annually, with support for professional development and networking opportunities. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens or residents and have a host agency to supervise their projects. The fellowship begins around July 1 or September 1, depending on Bar admission status, allowing flexibility in work location within the U.S.
Law Aging / Gerontology

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

Kevin P. Rimmell Memorial Scholarship Fund

Pittsburgh Foundation
Private
Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four-year universities and career/technical schools.

Kevin P. Rimmell Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Kevin P. Rimmell Memorial Scholarship Fund of The Pittsburgh Foundation was created to honor the memory of Kevin Rimmell who died tragically at the age of 34. He loved his work in the field of electronics and always credited his education at Pittsburgh Technical College as having prepared him to achieve great things. This scholarship is intended to provide financial support for a student of high academic achievement who has financial need.

Award Type: Renewable Award (subject to committee recommendation). 

Education - Higher Education Engineering

MMUF Advancement Program - The Adjunct Faculty Fellowships

Institute for Citizens & Scholars
Private
United States
US $10,000
The MMUF Advancement Program offers Adjunct Faculty Fellowships designed for alumni of the Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship. These fellowships provide essential resources and time to focus on research and scholarship, aiding individuals in securing tenure-track positions. Each fellow receives a $10,000 stipend, a six-month award period, a mentor, and funding to attend a conference. This initiative supports diverse perspectives in higher education, fostering an inclusive academic environment.
Art & Culture Humanities & Social Science Religion & Spirituality

Fellowships for Faculty- Career Enhancement Fellowship

Institute for Citizens & Scholars
Private
United States
Up to US $35,000
The Career Enhancement Fellowship, offered by Citizens & Scholars, supports junior faculty from diverse backgrounds in the humanities and humanistic social sciences. With stipends up to $35,000, funding for research, and travel support, this program nurtures academic diversity and enhances campus perspectives. Since 2001, over 400 fellows have advanced their careers while fostering a rich academic community. The fellowship promotes innovative scholarship and leadership roles, contributing to a more inclusive academic environment.
Humanities & Social Science Art & Culture Religion & Spirituality

Emergency Readiness Grants

Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities
Private
Louisiana
Up to US $5,000
The Emergency Readiness Grants, offered by the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities, aim to support cultural organizations in Louisiana in preparing for and responding to emergencies, such as hurricanes and floods. With funding up to $5,000 available, these grants help organizations develop strategies to mitigate the impact of future disasters, thereby strengthening the resilience of Louisiana's cultural infrastructure.
Disaster Preparedness Humanities & Social Science

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

PLTW Engineering - Program Expansion (PPG Industries)

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
Cuyahoga County, Ohio, Guilford County, North Carolina +1 more
US $10,000
The PLTW Engineering grant, funded by PPG Industries, supports schools in enhancing their existing PLTW Engineering programs for the 2025-2026 academic year. Eligible institutions, including public and charter schools in specified cities, can use funds for course expansions, teacher training, and necessary equipment. The initiative aims to maintain high-quality engineering education while ensuring compliance with reporting requirements. Unallowable expenses include salaries and infrastructure costs.
STEM / STEAM Education Engineering

Continential Resources Charitable Donation: Industry Advocacy

Continental Resources
Corporate
Blaine County, Oklahoma, Converse County, Wyoming +9 more
Unspecified amount
Continental Resources is dedicated to supporting the communities where it operates by investing in health, education, and industry advocacy. Their charitable donations focus on initiatives that promote healthy lifestyles, enhance educational programs, and advocate for the oil and gas industry, which is vital for job creation and energy security. By standing alongside their industry peers, they aim to educate the public about the benefits of oil and natural gas, fostering a brighter future for all.
Public Policy Energy

PLTW Engineering - Program Expansion (Arthur Blanchard Charitable Trust)

Project Lead the Way inc.
Private
Massachusetts
US $10,000
The PLTW Engineering program expansion, supported by the Arthur Blanchard Charitable Trust, aims to enhance access to innovative educational opportunities for K-12 students in Massachusetts. Grants are designated for under-resourced schools to implement or expand PLTW programs, covering costs for additional courses, teacher training, and essential supplies. This initiative seeks to foster interest in engineering and technology among students, ensuring they receive a comprehensive education that prepares them for future careers.
Engineering STEM / STEAM Education

PLTW Engineering - New Program (Arthur Blanchard Charitable Trust)

Project Lead the Way inc.
Private
Massachusetts
US $35,000
The Arthur Blanchard Charitable Trust collaborates with PLTW Engineering to enhance K-12 education access in Massachusetts. Grants are provided to support new or expanded PLTW programs in under-resourced schools, covering costs like participation fees and necessary equipment. Schools must offer at least one PLTW Engineering course in the upcoming academic year. This initiative aims to foster STEM education and improve opportunities for students in public and charter schools.
STEM / STEAM Education Engineering

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.