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Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits

Get unrestricted grants for nonprofits providing flexible funding to meet pressing organizational or program needs.

32,000+

Available grants

$8.25B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

32,000+ grants
$8.25B total
$6K median

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32,499 Results based on applied filters

Dr. A.I. Slagle Medical Educational Scholarship

Armstrong County Community Foundation (The Community Foundation Serving the Heart of Western Pennsylvania)
Private
United States
Approximately US $72,800

Dr. A.I. Slagle Medical Educational Scholarship

The Dr. A.I. Slagle Medical Education Scholarship is for students entering their first year at an accredited medical school in the US to obtain an MD or DO. This is a 4-year renewable scholarship if the student remains in satisfactory academic standing.

  • May be renewable up to 4 years - must reapply each year in order to be eligible
  • Approximately $72,800 available (which may be split into multiple awards)
Medical Education & Professional Training

Lycoming Economic Development Foundation Fund

First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania
Private
Lycoming County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Lycoming Economic Development Foundation Fund, established in partnership with the First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania, aims to stimulate economic growth in Lycoming County. This fund supports initiatives that enhance community life by promoting job creation, workforce development, infrastructure improvement, and sustainable business practices. Since its inception in 1955, the foundation has focused on fostering local philanthropic efforts to ensure a thriving economy for residents of Lycoming County.
Economic Services & Development

Natale Scholarship

Rochester Area Community Foundation
Private
Illinois, Monroe County, New York +1 more
US $7,500 - US $30,000

Mission & Vision

Rochester Area Community Foundation, in partnership with generous philanthropists and community partners, works to improve the quality of life for people who live and work in the eight-county region through its leadership and strategic grantmaking.

Our Mission:

We are cultivating a thriving Greater Rochester region — powered by philanthropy, grounded in community, and sustained across generations.

Our Vision:

We envision a Greater Rochester region transformed by enduring philanthropy, where every person, neighborhood, and future generation can thrive.

Natale Scholarship

Purpose of Scholarship

To provide scholarships to deserving residents of the town of Irondequoit.

Number and Size of Awards

One award of up to $30,000; paid as $7,500 per year for four consecutive years of undergraduate study. Award paid in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters.

Donor Information

This scholarship was created to provide scholarships to deserving residents of the town of Irondequoit to attend the University of Illinois, Rochester Institute of Technology or Niagara University.

Education - Higher Education

Rock Spring Congregational United Church of Christ SAM Grant

Rock Spring Congregational Church Endowment Fund
Private
Arlington County, Virginia, Caroline County, Virginia +19 more
US $500 - US $5,000
The Rock Spring Congregational United Church of Christ SAM Grant supports organizations that align with its mission as a Just Peace and Open and Affirming Congregation. Grants, ranging from $500 to $5,000, are available for general operating support or special projects. Eligible organizations are those that meet basic human needs and can engage Rock Spring volunteers, primarily in the Metropolitan Washington, D.C. area, and those in alignment with the values of the United Church of Christ.
Basic Human Needs

S.C. Arts Commission: Folklife & Traditional Arts Project Grants

South Carolina Arts Commission
State/Local Government
South Carolina
Up to US $6,000
The S.C. Arts Commission's Folklife & Traditional Arts Project Grants support non-profit organizations and government units in preserving and promoting South Carolina's traditional arts. This program aims to keep living cultural traditions vibrant through various projects, including workshops, festivals, and documentation efforts. Eligible applicants must be non-profit organizations with a valid DUNS number or government units. The grant encourages community engagement and the celebration of cultural heritage across the state.
Folk Art / Traditional Art

Women's Fund Success Grants

Community Foundation of Central Illinois
Private
Bureau County, Illinois, De Witt County, Illinois +15 more
Unspecified amount
The Women's Fund Success Grants, established by the Community Foundation of Central Illinois, aim to empower women and children in central Illinois. Since 1993, these grants have supported organizations that create impactful programs benefiting women and girls. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and local government units, with a focus on initiatives that address community needs and promote equality. The fund does not support capital campaigns or sectarian purposes, ensuring resources are directed towards community service.
Women & Girl Services

Association of American Educators Foundation Classroom Grant

Association of American Educators Foundation
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $500
The Association of American Educators Foundation offers classroom grants of up to $500 for full-time educators to support various educational projects and materials. These funds can be used for items such as books, software, and art supplies. Grants must be utilized within one year of approval, and competition is strong due to high application volumes. Note that applicants from specific states will not be eligible for national funding.
Education - K through 12

IATSE Local 600: Emergency Industry Slowdown Relief Grant

Entertainment Community Fund
Association/Society
Los Angeles County, California
Unspecified amount
The IATSE Local 600 Emergency Industry Slowdown Relief Grant offers vital financial assistance to performing arts and entertainment professionals facing unexpected hardships. Eligible members can receive support for essential living expenses, including healthcare and housing, to prevent eviction or service shut-offs. This grant is aimed at those who have demonstrated financial need and are unable to cover basic expenses for at least two months, ensuring that members can sustain themselves during critical times.
Performing Arts

Song-Brown Certified Nurse Midwifery (CNM) Training Programs

California Department of Health Care Access and Information
State/Local Government
California
US $182,000 - US $225,000
The Song-Brown Certified Nurse Midwifery Training Programs aim to support organizations training nurse midwifery students for underserved areas in California. This initiative includes recruiting students committed to serving in these communities, providing counseling and placement support, and offering relevant preceptorship experiences. By addressing the shortage of healthcare professionals in critical regions, the program enhances access to primary care and improves health outcomes for vulnerable populations.
Medical Education & Professional Training

Harry W. and Carolyn W. Galbraith Memorial Fund Grant

East Tennessee Foundation
Private
Anderson County, Tennessee, Blount County, Tennessee +23 more
US $3,000 - US $5,000
The Harry W. and Carolyn W. Galbraith Memorial Fund Grant supports animal care organizations focusing on spaying and neutering programs for cats and dogs. Established in 2014, it awards grants ranging from $3,000 to $5,000 for one-year terms beginning August 2024. Eligible organizations must be located within the Foundation's service area and provide services primarily to low-income pet owners. Funds may also cover rabies vaccinations, enhancing overall animal welfare in the community.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Annual Feline Proposals: Feline Health Fellowship Training Award

Morris Animal Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $145,000
The Morris Animal Foundation invites proposals for the Feline Health Fellowship Training Award, aimed at advancing the health and welfare of domesticated cats. This program supports new investigators by providing salary funds in a mentoring environment. Proposals should focus on hypothesis-driven research with high scientific merit, targeting community and pet cats (Felis catus). The maximum award duration is 24 months, with budgets not exceeding $145,000. Join us in making impactful contributions to feline health.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Lt. Col. Thomas R. Beam Scholarship

Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge
Private
Virginia
Unspecified amount

Community Foundation: Central Blue Ridge

Proudly serving the independent cities of Staunton and Waynesboro and the counties of Augusta, Highland, and Nelson in Virginia.

Our Mission

To enrich the quality of life by responding to needs and inspiring philanthropy in our community.

Scholarships

Our 2026 Scholarship Program will disburse over $300,000 this year!

Our scholarships support students of all ages (high school seniors, current college students, and adults returning to school) residing in Staunton, Waynesboro, and the counties of Augusta, Highland, and Nelson. 

Only one application is required to be considered for the majority of Community Foundation scholarships.

Lt. Col. Thomas R. Beam Scholarship

The Lt. Col. Thomas R. Beam Scholarship was established through the Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge to support promising students from the Central Shenandoah Valley in pursuing a path of service, leadership, and education at Virginia Tech as members of the Corps of Cadets.

Education - Higher Education

Annual Feline Proposals: Feline Health Established Investigator Award

Morris Animal Foundation
Private
United States
Approximately US $100,000
The Morris Animal Foundation offers the Annual Feline Proposals: Feline Health Established Investigator Award to support research aimed at improving the health and welfare of domesticated cats. Established in 1948, the foundation funds innovative, hypothesis-driven studies that demonstrate high scientific merit. This grant encourages collaboration between academia and industry and has a maximum project duration of 36 months, with average awards around $100,000. Eligible proposals should focus solely on domesticated cats, excluding other feline species.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Annual Feline Proposals: Feline Health Pilot Study Award

Morris Animal Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $20,000
The Morris Animal Foundation offers the Annual Feline Health Pilot Study Award to support innovative research that enhances the health and welfare of domesticated cats. This funding is aimed at proof-of-concept studies, advancing animal health research through collaborative projects. With a maximum funding of $20,000 for a 12-month duration, the foundation seeks proposals that have a significant impact on both scientific and community stakeholders, ensuring a healthier future for feline populations.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Josephine Rudy Smith Scholarship Fund Grant

The Kentucky Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church
Association/Society
Kentucky
Up to US $4,000
The Josephine Rudy Smith Scholarship Fund Grant, established in 1948 in memory of Josephine Rudy Smith, supports ministerial students in the Kentucky Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church. Funded initially by a donation of $40,000 and ongoing contributions, it is administered by a committee of church leaders. Eligible candidates must be certified for ordained ministry, hold a bachelor's degree, and maintain a GPA of 3.0. Awards can reach up to $4,000, aiding students in their seminary journey.
Christianity

Feline Annual: Feline Health First Award

Morris Animal Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $120,000
The Morris Animal Foundation is dedicated to improving the health of animals through scientific research and funding. With a focus on domesticated cats, the Feline Health First Award supports innovative research that addresses the welfare of both community and pet cats. Grants are available for projects lasting up to 24 months, with a maximum budget of $120,000. This initiative encourages collaborations that translate research findings into practical applications for veterinarians and cat caretakers.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

The Ganelle Hargrove Cook Scholarship

Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge
Private
United States
US $1,000

Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge

The Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge is a charitable organization that has served the independent cities of Staunton and Waynesboro, and the counties of Augusta, Highland and Nelson since 1992. 

The Ganelle Hargrove Cook Scholarship

The Ganelle Hargrove Cook Scholarship was established in 1999 to provide annual scholarships to deserving individuals residing in Staunton, Waynesboro, and Augusta County who are pursuing a two- or four-year degree. Preference will be given to applicants of Hispanic/Latino heritage. Scholarship recipients are eligible to re-apply annually for up to four years as long as the recipient continues to meet scholarship criteria and funds are available. The intent of the scholarship sponsor is to provide scholarships for Hispanic/Latino individuals.

Education - Higher Education

HOME Investment Partnership

City of Indianapolis: Department of Metropolitan Development (DMD)
State/Local Government
Marion County, Indiana
Unspecified amount
The HOME Investment Partnership Program, administered by the City of Indianapolis' Department of Metropolitan Development, provides federal funding to support the development of affordable housing for low-income individuals. It focuses on building, rehabilitating, and purchasing housing, as well as tenant-based rental assistance. Funding is awarded to partner organizations competitively, ensuring that resources effectively address local housing needs. For funding inquiries, individuals must contact designated partner organizations directly.
Real Estate & Housing

Saunders Brothers, Inc. Scholarship

Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge

The Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge is a charitable organization that has served the independent cities of Staunton and Waynesboro, and the counties of Augusta, Highland and Nelson since 1992. 

Saunders Brothers, Inc. Scholarship

Saunders Brothers, Inc. is proud to be a premier supplier of superb-quality plant material for garden centers, landscapers, and public gardens throughout the Eastern United States. The Saunders family is excited to offer this scholarship opportunity to all residents of Nelson County, as well as the employees of Saunders Brothers, Inc., and their children and grandchildren.

Description

Established to provide educational scholarship assistance to high school seniors who are Nelson County residents and/or Saunders Brothers, Inc. employees and/or their family members. Candidates for the Scholarship must have demonstrated a desire and passion to pursue higher education. 

Education - Higher Education

Roxanne Harsh Staufer Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge

The Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge is a charitable organization that has served the independent cities of Staunton and Waynesboro, and the counties of Augusta, Highland and Nelson since 1992. 

Roxanne Harsh Staufer Memorial Scholarship

Roxanne Harsh Staufer graduated from Fort Defiance High School in 1967. She attended Bridgewater College for two years before transferring to and graduating from Manchester College.

Description

The Roxanne Harsh Staufer Memorial Scholarship was established to provide funds for educational scholarships to Augusta County residents of any age, with preference given to applicants pursuing a degree in Elementary or Early Childhood Education.

Education - Higher Education

Ellis W. Rowe Memorial Scholarship

Hampton Roads Community Foundation
Private
Chesapeake City, Virginia, Isle of Wight County, Virginia +4 more
US $400 - US $6,000
The Ellis W. Rowe Memorial Scholarship, managed by the Hampton Roads Community Foundation, supports students from South Hampton Roads pursuing higher education. Established to aid those in financial need, this scholarship has awarded over $20 million since 1950. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, demonstrate financial need, and enroll full-time in a four-year accredited college. Award amounts range from $400 to $6,000, depending on available funds and individual circumstances.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Rugeley Scholarship Fund

Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation
Private
Wichita County, Texas
Up to US $3,000

About

Who We Are

For over 25 years, the Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation has remained committed to leaving a legacy for future generations by promoting philanthropy, providing charitable opportunities, and facilitating donors’ interests. You can trust us to offer expertise in local nonprofit needs and best practices for charitable giving while ensuring your giving goals are met.

Scholarship Opportunities

Rugeley Scholarship Fund

The Rugeley Scholarship endowment was established in 2019 by Dr. and Mrs. Robert Rugeley, longtime residents of Wichita Falls. As an oral surgeon and registered nurse, Dr. and Mrs. Rugeley experienced the benefits of higher education and being able to obtain that education with the least amount of debt. Dr. Rugeley was a guest lecturer in the Dental Hygiene School and a foundational board member of the pre-med committee at MSU spanning 4 decades. Seeing the solid foundation that can be obtained at MSU, their hope is for students to be able to realize their dreams because of their time at MSU, and return to perpetuate the dreams of future students.

This renewable scholarship of up to $3,000 is for graduating seniors of any high school in Wichita County, attending Midwestern State University, with a 3.5 GPA and in the top 15% of their class.

Education - Higher Education

Peter Veglahn Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge
Private
United States
US $1,000

Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge

The Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge is a charitable organization that has served the independent cities of Staunton and Waynesboro, and the counties of Augusta, Highland and Nelson since 1992. 

Peter Veglahn Memorial Scholarship

The Peter Veglahn Memorial Scholarship serves as a memorial to Peter “Pete” Veglahn who was a long time member of the Shenandoah Valley Society for Human Resource Management (SVSHRM) and a member of the Virginia SHRM State Council. Through Pete’s work on behalf of SHRM and his career as a professor at James Madison University, he made many positive contributions to the advancement of the human resource profession.

Description

The Peter Veglahn Memorial Scholarship was established to provide funds for college scholarships to college students pursuing a career in human resources. The successful candidate must reside or attend school in the SVSHRM membership area of Shenandoah, Rockingham, Page and Augusta Counties, including the cities within those Virginia counties.

Education - Higher Education

Early-Career Artist Project Grant

Forecast Public Art
Private
Minnesota
US $8,000
The Early-Career Artist Project Grant supports Minnesota-based artists in creating public artworks. This grant emphasizes accessibility and originality, fostering diverse artistic expressions in the community. Eligible artists must demonstrate 2-10 years of experience and be focused on developing their artistic voice. The initiative aims to uplift early-career artists, ensuring their work is visible and impactful in public spaces. This program is a valuable opportunity for emerging creatives looking to contribute to Minnesota's vibrant public art scene.
Public / Community Art

Cindi Conaty Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains (CFEM)
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount

Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains

Our mission at the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is to improve the region’s quality of life through the power of philanthropy. We do this by offering individuals, families, and businesses the most effective charitable giving tools available in the marketplace today. Founded in 1998, the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is honored to work with hundreds of donors, nonprofits, advisors, and civic leaders to achieve dreams for making the Endless Mountains region of Northeastern Pennsylvania an even better place to live for everyone.

Scholarships

Many generous individuals, families, and businesses have established scholarship funds to provide support to graduates in our region. Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors.

Cindi Conaty Memorial Scholarship

Established by Susquehanna County President Judge, Jason Legg, in honor of his mother to provide a college or post-secondary degree program scholarship for a student from one of the six Susquehanna County high school districts, including home schooled students.

Education - Higher Education

Barlow Enterprises Charitable and Educational Fund

Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin
Private
Portage County, Wisconsin
Unspecified amount

The Community Foundation proudly supports students in Portage and Waushara counties with over $325,000 in scholarships annually, thanks to the generosity of local individuals and families. Award amounts range from $500 to $40,000, opening doors to educational opportunities.

The Community Foundation provides scholarships for a wide range of students, including high school seniors, college students, non-traditional learners, and those pursuing specific fields of study.

Barlow Enterprises Charitable and Educational Fund

Criteria for Selection:

  • Be a student employee at the Bill’s Pizza division of Barlow Enterprises.
Education - Higher Education

OSGC Mini-Grant Program

Ohio Space Grant Consortium
Private
Ohio
Up to US $1,000
The OSGC Mini-Grant Program supports innovative STEM projects for Ohio K-12 teachers, offering up to $1,000 in funding with a required 1:1 cost share. This initiative encourages proposals that promote STEM education, have a lasting impact, and are replicable. Eligible projects may include purchasing materials or supporting field trips, provided they feature structured STEM programming. Applications are particularly welcomed from schools in urban and rural areas, with all awards contingent on available funding.
STEM / STEAM Education

Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits Highlights

Unrestricted grants for nonprofits provide flexible funding to support operating expenses, program development, and general organizational needs. The following grants empower organizations to allocate resources where they are needed most to achieve long-term impact and sustainability.


Search Instrumentl's Unrestricted Grants Database


Discover 8,000+ funding opportunities for unrestricted grants, with $3.43B available. Instrumentl connects nonprofits to tailored funding options, offering tools for tracking deadlines, customized searches, and insights to support organizational flexibility and growth.

Last updated: October 5, 2026. Next update: November 1, 2026.

Grant Insights : Unrestricted 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+ Unrestricted grants for nonprofits grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

3,000+ Unrestricted grants for nonprofits over $25K in average grant size

3,000+ Unrestricted grants for nonprofits over $50K in average grant size

1,000+ Unrestricted grants for nonprofits supporting general operating expenses

7,000+ Unrestricted grants for nonprofits supporting programs / projects

1,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Health Care Access & Delivery

300+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Social Justice / Human Rights

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Unrestricted grants for Nonprofits?

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
29.8%
Q2
23.8%
Q3
23.9%
Q4
22.6%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits?

Grants are most commonly $34,887.

$0 $0 Min.
$34,887 $34.9 K Median
$655,609 $655.6 K Average
$188,250,000 $188.3 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

Unrestricted grants are open to nonprofits across various sectors, including education, healthcare, social services, and the arts. Unlike project-specific grants, these funds aren’t tied to a particular initiative, making them great for organizations that need flexibility to strengthen their operations, build capacity, and expand their reach.

Based on Instrumentl’s live grant database for unrestricted grants, grant deadlines are most common in Q1, accounting for 29.8% 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.

Unrestricted grants aim to give nonprofits the freedom to focus funding where it’s needed most. Whether it’s covering administrative costs, hiring staff, investing in technology, or expanding prgrams, these grants help nonprofits strengthen their organization. Funders see unrestricted grants as a way to help nonprofits remain adaptable as new challenges come up while building long-term sustainability.

Funding for unrestricted 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 $34,887, while the average grant awarded is $655,609. Understanding these funding trends can help nonprofits set realistic expectations when applying.

Unrestricted grants are typically funded by private or community foundations, corporate giving programs, and individual donors. Well-known funders like the MacArthur Foundation and the Ford Foundation offer unrestricted grants to nonprofits that align with their mission. Community foundations and corporate programs (Target Foundation, Toyota) also fund these types of grants for organizations.

To improve the chances of receiving unrestricted grants, applicants should:

  • Show financial responsibility – Funders want to know their money will be managed effectively, so provide financial reports and budgeting strategies.
  • Highlight past successes – Use data, stories, and testimonials to show how your organization has already made an impact.
  • Explain how the funds will support your mission – Make it clear how unrestricted funding will help your organization grow, expand reach, and have a greater impact.
  • Build strong relationships with funders – Unrestricted grants often come from funders who already trust an organization, so networking and maintaining strong connections can increase your opportunities.

For more information on unrestricted grants, dig into our guide on the differerences between restricted and unrestricted funding.

Instrumentl simplifies the process of applying for unrestricted 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.

Learn more about Instrumentl’s and how you can scale your grant funding.