Skip to main content
Main content

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

Skip the search. Get matched with grants that fit your non-profit.

Skip the search.

Get matched with grants that actually fit.

Smart recommendations based on your profile — in minutes.

Find me grants

Filters

32,241 Results based on applied filters

Creative Confluence Fund: Strengthening Arts-Engaged Organizations

Charlotte Street Foundation
Private
Jackson County, Missouri, Wyandotte County, Kansas
More than US $15,000

Charlotte Street

What We Do

  • Provide annual cash awards, project based grants, special commissions and specific travel opportunities to visual and generative performing artists
  • Provide free studios and performance and exhibition spaces to theater, dance, music, film/video and visual artists for the creation and presentation of new work
  • Facilitate venues and opportunities for public exposure to these exhibitions and performances, and facilitate artistic collaboration and exchange
  • Plan and collaborate on behalf of Kansas City artists and the arts community with philanthropic, business and civic leaders
  • Engage national philanthropic and cultural leaders with Kansas City artists and the arts community

Creative Confluence Fund: Strengthening Arts-Engaged Organizations

ArtsKC, Charlotte Street, and the Hall Family Foundation are requesting proposals for capacity-building support for art-focused, small organizations (annual budget at or below $500,000) located or serving key geographic areas that represent a broad swath of art forms, offering accessible programming to our community. 

Selected organizations will represent diverse artistic disciplines and forms of social engagement and must provide accessible programming for communities in the geographic areas of the Historic Northeast, Eastside Kansas City, and Northeast Wyandotte County.

  • Fifteen arts-engaged organizations will receive $15,000 in unrestricted funding per year for two years.
  • ArtsKC will provide capacity-building assessments, subject matter experts, and project implementation support (value of up to $10,000 per year per organization).
  • Grantees will be expected to work with ArtsKC to carry out their capacity-building initiatives as well as share learnings with other awardees in a cohort model, which may include artist awardees as well.
  • Documentation, evaluation, and/or presentations on projects will be required.

This project seeks to build organizations’ long-term viability, including growing community engagement, stabilizing finances and personnel, identifying and resolving organizational needs, strategic planning, developing evaluation metrics and competencies, or other identified priorities. 

Arts / Culture Access & Participation Nonprofit Growth & Development

Dr. Frederick M. Kalisz, Jr. Memorial Scholarship

Southcoast Community Foundation
Private
Bristol County, Massachusetts
Unspecified amount
The Dr. Frederick M. Kalisz, Jr. Memorial Scholarship, established by the SouthCoast Community Foundation, honors high school seniors from New Bedford pursuing degrees in Political Science, Public Policy, Organizational Leadership, Business Administration, Sustainability, or related fields. This scholarship reflects Dr. Kalisz's commitment to public service and aims to support exemplary students in their educational endeavors. Since 1995, the Foundation has facilitated over $50 million in philanthropic giving to enhance the community's quality of life.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Jean Dreyfus Lectureship for Undergraduate Institutions Grant

The Camille and Henry Dreyfus Foundation, Inc.
Private
American Samoa, District of Columbia +5 more
US $25,000
The Jean Dreyfus Lectureship for Undergraduate Institutions Grant provides a $25,000 award to facilitate a visit by a notable researcher in the chemical sciences to undergraduate institutions. It includes funding for summer research fellowships for two students and requires the researcher to deliver accessible lectures to the public. This initiative honors Jean Dreyfus's legacy and supports the engagement of undergraduates in scientific research and discourse.
Chemistry Chemical Engineering

Ditchfield Family Scholarship

Southcoast Community Foundation
Private
Bristol County, Massachusetts
Unspecified amount
The Ditchfield Family Scholarship, established by the SouthCoast Community Foundation, aims to support high-achieving students in financial need. This scholarship is open to high school seniors and college students pursuing accredited vocational programs or degree courses. With a commitment to enhance educational opportunities, the Foundation has disbursed over $50 million to community needs since 1995. This scholarship reflects their mission to foster philanthropy and improve lives in the region.
Academic Scholarship Programs

David C. DuBois Scholarship

Southcoast Community Foundation
Private
Bristol County, Massachusetts
Unspecified amount
The David C. DuBois Scholarship, established by the SouthCoast Community Foundation, supports students pursuing maritime studies, including fields like marine engineering and marine safety. This scholarship honors David DuBois's legacy and commitment to the maritime industry. Eligible applicants include high school seniors, college students, and adults returning to education for a degree or certificate in relevant maritime disciplines. The foundation has contributed over $50 million to various community needs since 1995, reflecting its dedication to philanthropy.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Christine Saulnier Pimental Scholarship

Southcoast Community Foundation
Private
Bristol County, Massachusetts
Unspecified amount
The Christine Saulnier Pimental Scholarship, established by the SouthCoast Community Foundation, offers annual scholarships to local adults aiming to enhance their professional skills through further education. Eligible applicants include high school seniors, college students, and adults returning to school in fields such as life sciences, computer sciences, and veterinary sciences. This initiative supports the Foundation's commitment to improving community life by investing in the education and growth of individuals in the region.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Bob Key Memorial Education Scholarship

Gibson County Community Foundation
Association/Society
Gibson County, Indiana
US $1,920

Gibson County Community Foundation

Established in 1993, the Gibson County Community Foundation is one of over 800 community foundations in the United States today. The Community Foundation is a charitable resource devoted to our local community. We help people make meaningful gifts that improve life in Gibson County, Indiana today and for generations to come.

We are part of the Community Foundation Alliance (The Alliance), a network of nine community foundations serving counties in southwestern Indiana. The Alliance, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, provides management and administrative expertise to county-wide community foundations, empowering each to promote philanthropy, build endowments, and improve well-being in our local community. 

Bob Key Memorial Education Scholarship

Annual scholarship established by Mary Key in memory of her husband. Bob Key (1942-1995) was a husband and father whose chosen vocation was farming. Throughout his life, he pursued the perfection of his physical and managerial skills. He often took continuing education courses and taught seminars at Purdue University. He believed that success was achieved by a person’s own ability to accomplish a task as efficiently as possible. The Bob Key Memorial Education Scholarship is an appropriate continuation of his enthusiasm for lifelong learning. Award also may be used to obtain educa­tional materials.

Education - Higher Education

Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan’s Community Perspective Fund

Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan
Private
Orange County, New York, Rockland County, New York +1 more
US $1,000

About

What is the Community Foundation of Orange, Sullivan and Rockland?

The Community Foundation of Orange, Sullivan and Rockland is a tax exempt, non-profit, publicly supported, philanthropic institution with the long-term goal of building permanent, named funds for the broad based charitable benefit of the individuals and families in the region. Funds are established through contributions from individuals, families, businesses or 501(c)3 organizations, each one with its own specific purpose. The Foundation’s Board of Directors oversees these funds in perpetuity, to ensure that donor’s intentions are honored, now and forever.

The Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan received accreditation with the nation’s highest standard for philanthropic excellence in 2014. National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations™ establish legal, ethical, effective practices for community foundations. The rigorous accreditation process provides quality assurance to donors and to their legal and financial advisors.

Community Perspective Fund

The Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan’s Community Perspective Fund supports local nonprofit organizations working to advance equity, inclusion, and understanding across our region.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

CHCF Innovation Fund Grant

California Health Care Foundation
Private
California
Up to US $400,000
The CHCF Innovation Fund Grant aims to enhance healthcare access and quality for Californians by investing in early- to growth-stage companies. It focuses on technologies developed by diverse founders who understand community challenges, particularly in California's Medicaid ecosystem. The fund seeks partners committed to improving care quality, reducing costs, and ensuring access for low-income populations. This initiative highlights the importance of lived experiences in driving innovative healthcare solutions. For more information, please refer to the FAQs on their website.
Health Care Access & Delivery

ANSWER Scholarship

College Foundation, Inc.
Private
Cabarrus County, North Carolina, Catawba County, North Carolina +8 more
US $2,750 - US $5,500
The ANSWER Scholarship, offered by the College Foundation of North Carolina, provides financial support ranging from $2,750 to $5,500 for nontraditional female students aged 25 and older who are mothers of school-age children. This scholarship aims to enhance access to higher education in North Carolina, helping eligible women pursue their academic goals at both two-year and four-year institutions. It serves residents of specific counties, promoting educational advancement for families.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Truliant Foundation Scholarships - General Fund Scholarships

Truliant Federal Credit Union
Corporate
North Carolina, South Carolina
Unspecified amount
The Truliant Foundation Scholarships, established in 1996, have awarded over $265,000 to more than 250 high school seniors pursuing higher education. These scholarships, funded by the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation, are open to members of any credit union in North and South Carolina, supporting both academic and needs-based candidates, including first-time college students and high school seniors. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and enroll as full-time students.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Truliant Foundation Scholarships - Clyde Padgett Scholarship

Truliant Federal Credit Union
Corporate
North Carolina, South Carolina
US $2,500
The Truliant Foundation Scholarships, established in 1996, have awarded over $265,000 to more than 250 high school seniors pursuing higher education. The Clyde Padgett Scholarship specifically offers $2,500 to eligible applicants who are members of a North or South Carolina credit union, maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and enroll as full-time students in the 2025-2026 academic year. This initiative supports first-time college students, including dependents of Truliant employees.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Truliant Foundation Scholarships - Fred J. Sarda Scholarships

Truliant Federal Credit Union
Corporate
North Carolina, South Carolina
US $1,500
The Truliant Foundation offers the Fred J. Sarda Scholarships, providing $1,500 each to qualified applicants. Established in 1996, this program has awarded over $265,000 to more than 250 high school seniors who are members of a North or South Carolina credit union. Eligible candidates must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and be first-time college students enrolled full-time for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Dwight Risley Scholarship

Daviess County Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Daviess County Community Foundation

The Community Foundation is a charitable resource devoted to our local community. We help people make meaningful gifts that improve life in Daviess County, Indiana today and for generations to come.

The Community Foundation can help you...

  • Make a difference where it matters
  • Invest in the future of the community you love
  • Create greater good together

Dwight Risley Scholarship

Annual scholarship established by Martha Risley Reiners in memory of her husband.

Award Amount

  • $31,550 (multiple scholarships may be awarded from this amount).
Education - Higher Education

Adult Reentry Grant (CA)

California Board of State and Community Corrections
State/Local Government
California
Up to US $4,500,000
The Adult Reentry Grant (ARG) Program, funded annually by the California Budget Act, provides essential support to community organizations delivering reentry services for formerly incarcerated individuals. Totaling $114 million, the grant prioritizes funding for warm handoff services and rental assistance, particularly for those transitioning from state prison to parole. This program embodies a Housing First approach, ensuring quick access to permanent housing without barriers related to sobriety or criminal history, promoting successful reintegration into communities.
Reentry Services

The Paris B. Swisher Memorial Scholarship

The Community Foundation of Rappahannock River Region, Inc
Private
Virginia
Unspecified amount

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Paris B. Swisher Memorial Scholarship

The Paris B. Swisher Memorial Scholarship is an honor to a grandaughter's fighting spirit.

Paris graduated from Patrick Henry High School in Roanoke, VA and attended Liberty University. She exemplified a faithful and fearless life by learning music and sailing, enjoying art and embracing her friendships and faith. This scholarship fund celebrates who she was and will continue to do so by supporting local students to shine their light.

A memorial is from David and Shirley Swisher, Paris' grandparents. The Swisher’s also have the David and Shirley Swisher Charitable Fund. They see this scholarship as a meaningful way to continually commemorate service and faith, principles Paris stood for.

Eligible students are high school seniors graduating from specific schools that must be enrolled, accepted or awaiting approval of acceptance from Liberty University and demonstrate service to their community. 

Education - Higher Education

Ronald Frette and Ann Frette 4-H Scholarship

Daviess County Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Daviess County Community Foundation

The Community Foundation is a charitable resource devoted to our local community. We help people make meaningful gifts that improve life in Daviess County, Indiana today and for generations to come.

The Community Foundation can help you...

  • Make a difference where it matters
  • Invest in the future of the community you love
  • Create greater good together

Ronald Frette and Ann Frette 4-H Scholarship

Annual scholarship created by the Daviess County 4-H Club Association in honor of long-time supporters, Ronald and Ann Frette.

Award Amount

  • $4,330 (multiple scholarships may be awarded from this amount).
Education - Higher Education

The Mary B. and Perry A. Thompson Scholarship Fund

The Community Foundation of Rappahannock River Region, Inc
Private
Virginia
Unspecified amount

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Mary B. and Perry A. Thompson Scholarship Fund

The Mary B. and Perry A. Thompson Scholarship Fund honors two of the Fredericksburg region’s prominent civic leaders of the 50’s and 60’s: Mary Thompson, an educator who served Fredericksburg City Schools for nearly 40 years, and Perry Thompson, who retired as advertising director of the Free Lance-Star after 40 years of service. Mr. Thompson established this scholarship fund in July of 1989 to support meritorious local high school seniors with a demonstrable need for financial support. The fund was transferred to The Community Foundation in January 2013.

The Thompson’s Scholarship Fund supports the college or university education of graduating high school seniors from the City of Fredericksburg or the counties of Spotsylvania or Stafford. In particular, the donors intend for their gift to support the further education of high school students who have strong character and who demonstrate applying their intellect. Priority will be given to students for whom financial need or other circumstances create barriers to further education.

Education - Higher Education

The Henry Warden/Patty Shannon Scholarship Endowment Fund

The Community Foundation of Rappahannock River Region, Inc
Private
Virginia
Unspecified amount

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Henry Warden/Patty Shannon Scholarship Endowment Fund

Henry Warden, a Pennsylvania native, moved to Virginia in the late 1800’s, residing at his historic Hazel Hill on lower Princess Ann Street. In addition to owning several other farm properties around the city and in Spotsylvania County, Henry was very active in Fredericksburg public affairs: including, but not limited to serving on the Fredericksburg City Council for 12 years, holding a position as a director of the Chamber of Commerce, serving on the board of directors at Planters National Bank of Fredericksburg (a predecessor of today’s PNC Bank), served on the Fredericksburg City School Board and was one of the founders of Lee Hill Cemetery. He also owned several businesses including Hazel Hill Canning Company.

Patty Shannon is Henry’s great-granddaughter.

High school seniors graduating from Spotsylvania County or the City of Fredericksburg are eligible for this renewable scholarship as a first-generation college student in their immediate family and demonstrate financial need.

Education - Higher Education

Kronkosky Charitable Foundation Grant: Aging Adults

Albert & Bessie Mae Kronkosky Charitable Foundation
Private
Bandera County, Texas, Bexar County, Texas +2 more
Unspecified amount
The Kronkosky Charitable Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing the quality of life for aging adults, ensuring they receive essential care, basic needs, and opportunities to lead active lives. The foundation funds organizations that promote dignity for seniors, addressing both their physical and emotional well-being. Additionally, it supports initiatives that foster vibrant communities, emphasizing the importance of cultural and natural resources. This grant is specifically targeted at nonprofit agencies operating within Bandera, Bexar, Comal, and Kendall counties.
Senior Services

Montana State and Local Cyber Security Grant Program (SLCGP) (MT)

Montana Disaster & Emergency Services
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Montana State and Local Cyber Security Grant Program (SLCGP) aims to enhance cybersecurity across local jurisdictions by allocating $2,427,866 in FY 2022. Funded through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the grant supports various project areas, including end-user training and network monitoring. Eligible applicants like counties and school districts can request funding for projects identified by the Cybersecurity Planning Committee, ensuring robust cybersecurity measures are implemented statewide.
Cybersecurity

The George Toliver “Swish 21” Scholarship Fund

The Community Foundation of Rappahannock River Region, Inc
Private
Caroline County, Virginia, Fredericksburg City, Virginia +3 more
Unspecified amount

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The George Toliver “Swish 21” Scholarship Fund

George Toliver attended King George High School 1966 – 1969 and was a multi-sports star in Basketball and Baseball.

As a senior for the Foxes, he was a Co-Captain of the 20-1 State Runner-up Basketball team, led the team in scoring with an 18.1 ppg average and was First Team All-District. He was also MVP on the baseball team and in 1969 graduated with honors.

George attended James Madison University where he led the basketball team in scoring 3 out of 4 seasons. He was the 1st player in JMU history to score 1,000 points. He was involved in community service and led a Girl’s AAU Basketball program for 10 years. In 2004 he coached a team to a National Championship.

In 1991 he was inducted into the JMU Hall of Fame and was also inducted into the King George Sports Hall of Fame 2012 (individual) and in 2013 (as member of the 1969 Basketball team). George went on to referee Major College and International Basketball. He then had a 14-year career as a referee in the National Basketball Association.

The scholarship name - “SWISH 21” (Success With Integrity Spirit Humility) represents his proficiency in shooting a basketball through the net. “21” was his KGHS basketball jersey number. By establishing this scholarship, George would like to annually assist the recipient pursue the educational experience to eventually make their positive SWISH contributions to society.

Education - Higher Education

The George D. Taylor Scholarship Fund

The Community Foundation of Rappahannock River Region, Inc
Private
Fredericksburg City, Virginia, Stafford County, Virginia
Unspecified amount

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The George D. Taylor Scholarship Fund

This scholarship fund was established at The Community Foundation in August 2013 upon transfer of the George D. Taylor Education Trust from StellarOne Bank. It had been created there through Mr. Taylor’s will. After insuring that his late wife, Edith, would be cared for, George Taylor intended the remainder of his estate to support the higher education students from Stafford County Schools or Fredericksburg City Schools, who are high achieving and have the greatest need.

Education - Higher Education

Coshocton High School Scholarship

Coshocton Foundation
Private
Coshocton County, Ohio
Unspecified amount

About The Foundation

The Coshocton Foundation was created in 1967 through a $685,000 bequest from Adolph Golden, a prominent Coshocton merchant and harness racing enthusiast. The foundation originally was a single fund from which all grants were made.

In 1989, the late Edward and Frances Montgomery gave broader giving a significant boost by establishing a challenge fund that would match gifts to the Foundation’s unrestricted fund. The fund was set up to match a maximum of $500,000 over a period of ten years. 

Education - Higher Education

Howard Gilman Foundation Grant - Current Grantees Renewed Funding

Howard Gilman Foundation Inc
Private
Bronx County, New York, Kings County, New York +3 more
Unspecified amount
The Howard Gilman Foundation supports a diverse range of performing arts organizations in New York City, emphasizing equitable access to the arts. With a mission to transform lives through artistic expression, the Foundation provides general operating support grants, fostering long-term partnerships. They prioritize organizations reflective of New York's cultural community, focusing on those led by people of color or located in underserved neighborhoods. This commitment helps ensure a vibrant and inclusive arts ecosystem for all.
Performing Arts

Jeffris Heartland Fund Grant

Jeffris Family Foundation Ltd
Private
Illinois, Indiana +6 more
US $5,000 - US $50,000
The Jeffris Heartland Fund Grant, provided by the Jeffris Family Foundation, supports significant historic preservation projects across several Midwestern states, including Iowa and Wisconsin. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000, covering 50% of costs for Historic Structure Reports, requiring a dollar-for-dollar match. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and government agencies, focusing on projects with historical significance, architectural merit, and strong community ties. Applications are accepted anytime, with decisions made approximately 30 days after submission.
Historic Preservation

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.

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.