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Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits

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

33,000+

Available grants

$8.25B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

33,000+ grants
$8.25B total
$6K median

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32,595 Results based on applied filters

AAUW American Doctoral Fellowship

American Association of University Women (AAUW)
Association/Society
United States
US $25,000
The AAUW American Dissertation Fellowship supports women scholars in their final year of dissertation writing, providing a stipend of $25,000 to help offset expenses. Established in 1888, this fellowship encourages diversity in academia and is particularly aimed at women in STEM fields and those researching gender issues. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, with all coursework completed and engaged full-time in their dissertation work during the fellowship year.
All fields of work

Dayton Foundation: Discretionary Grants

The Dayton Foundation
Private
Darke County, Ohio, Greene County, Ohio +4 more
US $7,500 - US $75,000
The Dayton Foundation offers discretionary grants to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in the Dayton Region, supporting projects addressing community needs. Grants typically range from $7,500 to $75,000 and prioritize capacity-building, special projects, and program expansions. Eligible organizations must have a two-year operational history and demonstrate collaboration and community impact. The Foundation seeks to enhance efficiency, promote volunteerism, and improve equity for marginalized populations. Applications are reviewed by the Grants Committee, with notifications provided via email.
All fields of work

CFECI: Nonprofit Capacity Building Grants

Community Foundation of East Central Illinois
Private
Champaign County, Illinois, Coles County, Illinois +7 more
Up to US $5,000
The Community Foundation of East Central Illinois is offering Nonprofit Capacity Building Grants up to $5,000 to enhance the effectiveness of local nonprofits. These grants aim to strengthen core operations in areas like governance, financial management, and leadership development. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt with at least two years of operation and contribute a 10% match. Priority will be given to those with budgets under $1 million, fostering sustainable growth and community impact.
All fields of work

SACF: Newell A. & Grace A. Franks Fund Grant

Sturgis Area Community Foundation
Private
St. Joseph County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Newell A. & Grace A. Franks Fund Grant, managed by the Sturgis Area Community Foundation, aims to support charitable and educational initiatives in the Sturgis area. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, governmental entities, and public schools. This grant encourages all qualifying entities to apply and contributes to enhancing community programs.
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Joe M and Doris R Dealey Family Foundation Grant

Joe M And Doris R Dealey Family Foundation
Private
Texas
Up to US $25,000
The Joe M and Doris R Dealey Family Foundation Grant supports charities and nonprofit organizations operating in Texas. Note that the Foundation is not accepting Letters of Inquiry (LOIs) for the 2025 grant season; interested parties should check back next year. For grant requests of $25,000 or more, a meeting with the Executive Director is required before submission. This ensures alignment with the Foundation's philanthropic mission.
All fields of work

Morton Community Foundation- Annual Spring Community Grant

Morton Community Foundation
Private
Tazewell County, Illinois
Unspecified amount
The Morton Community Foundation's Annual Spring Community Grant supports innovative charitable initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life for residents in the Morton area. Established in 2003, this grant prioritizes projects that are high-impact, sustainable, collaborative, identifiable, and measurable. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) non-profits and governmental entities. Ineligible projects encompass those benefiting individuals directly, administrative expenses, and consumables. This grant opportunity is vital for fostering community development and addressing pressing local needs.
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Operation Round Up Grant

GreyStone Power Foundation, Inc.
Corporate
Bartow County, Georgia, Carroll County, Georgia +6 more
Up to US $8,000
The Operation Round Up Grant, offered by the GreyStone Power Foundation, Inc., supports nonprofit organizations in several counties, including Bartow, Carroll, and Cobb. Members of GreyStone voluntarily round up their electric bills to fund this initiative, providing essential monetary assistance to local nonprofits. This program aims to strengthen community support and address various needs through collective contributions, fostering a spirit of collaboration and charity among residents.
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Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Grants

Tim Hortons
Corporate
Canada
Unspecified amount
The Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Grants support local charities through proceeds from specially decorated cookies. Each year, 100% of the profits during Smile Cookie Week are donated, amounting to over $15 million last year alone. Eligible organizations must apply, detailing their mission, community impact, and funding needs. This initiative not only aids various charitable causes but also encourages community engagement through the beloved Smile Cookie campaign.
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Virginia Tech Presidential Postdoctoral Fellowship

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Private
Virginia
Up to US $10,000
The Virginia Tech Presidential Postdoctoral Fellowship aims to enhance the recruitment of diverse postdoctoral associates by offering competitive salaries, benefits, and professional development support. Recipients can receive up to $10,000 for training expenses and are paired with faculty mentors to develop research proposals. Eligible applicants must be within three years of obtaining their doctoral degree and reside near a Virginia Tech campus during their fellowship period. This initiative promotes diversity in research fields.
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One Year Marshall Scholarship

Marshall Scholarships
Federal Government
United Kingdom
Unspecified amount
The One Year Marshall Scholarship finances exceptional American students to pursue graduate studies in the UK, fostering a deeper understanding of British society. With up to fifty scholarships awarded annually, recipients receive funding for tuition, living expenses, and travel. This esteemed program not only enhances academic growth but also promotes transatlantic relationships, encouraging scholars to act as cultural ambassadors. Applications are open until September 16, 2025, with strict eligibility criteria for candidates.
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Graduate Education Fund: Graduate Education Indigenous Scholarships

American Australian Association
Private
Australia, United States
Up to US $40,000
The American Australian Association's Graduate Education Fund provides vital financial support for American and Australian students pursuing advanced degrees in each other's countries. With scholarships up to $40,000 available for Masters, Ph.D., and Postdoctoral research in various fields, including STEM and Indigenous studies, this initiative promotes educational exchange and global collaboration. It is open to eligible Native Americans and Indigenous Australians, fostering opportunities for transformative learning and cultural connections.
All fields of work

Community Foundation: Mini-grants

Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc.
Private
Chemung County, New York, Steuben County, New York
US $100 - US $1,500
The Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc. offers Mini-Grants ranging from $100 to $1,500 to support small-scale projects addressing urgent community needs. Applications must be submitted 30-90 days in advance and are prioritized based on emergent issues. Eligible applicants are 501(c)3 organizations serving Chemung and Southeastern Steuben counties. Funding is competitive and may be partial or denied based on available resources and community priorities.
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Henry and Sylvia Yaschik Foundation Grant

Henry & Sylvia Yaschik Foundation
Private
Charleston County, South Carolina
Unspecified amount
The Henry and Sylvia Yaschik Foundation, based in Charleston, South Carolina, is a charitable organization dedicated to continuing the legacy of philanthropy established by its founders. It provides grants exclusively to qualified charities serving the Charleston area. The foundation offers various grant types, including one-time and multi-year grants, to support community projects. Organizations must demonstrate proper use of previously granted funds to remain eligible for future funding.
All fields of work

Grant Matching Program

Nevada Governor's Office of Federal Assistance (OFA)
State/Local Government
Nevada
Unspecified amount

Governor's Office of Federal Assistance

The Governor's Office of Federal Assistance (OFA), was established July 1, 2022 and codified within NRS 223.478-486. The Agency provides a range of grant-related support for the legislatively identified stakeholders. With a mission to increase the number of grant dollars Nevada receives, OFA works to reduce and remove barriers to federal grant funding through providing grant resources, advocacy, and coordination, among federal grant applicants across the state. 

The Governor's Office of Federal Assistance also serves as the single point of contact for Nevada’s federal grant applications that are subject to intergovernmental review, supports the Nevada Advisory Council on Federal Assistance, and works with Nevada’s federal delegation on grant-related initiatives.

Grant Matching Program

The Governor’s Office of Federal Assistance’s Grant Matching Program (GMP) is available for state agencies, local agencies, tribal governments, and nonprofits applying for federal or competitive federally funded state pass-through funds within the State of Nevada to meet match/cost share requirements. Applicants must have exhausted all efforts to find available funding, prior to the awarding of the federal grant or up to 90 days after the award date on the federal Notice of Grant Award (NoGA). Grant applications submitted prior to accepting the award will be given priority. 

All applicants must receive a federal or a competitive federally funded state award notification and provide documentation to the Governor’s Office of Federal Assistance. Applications will be reviewed upon submission and awarded throughout the program period on a first-come, firstserved basis. 

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D.E. & Jane Clark Fund

The Oregon Community Foundation
Private
Baker County, Oregon
US $2,000 - US $10,000
The D.E. & Jane Clark Fund, established in 2013 by the Oregon Community Foundation, supports nonprofits in Baker County and North Powder. With grants typically ranging from $2,000 to $10,000, the fund aims to enhance community welfare by funding general operations of eligible 501(c)(3) organizations, churches, and schools. The average grant size is $2,500, reflecting its commitment to local charitable initiatives.
All fields of work

Smart Family Fund

Smart Family Fund
Private
United States
US $25,000 - US $100,000
The Smart Family Fund is a private foundation dedicated to supporting early-stage non-profits that demonstrate the potential for scalable, positive impact. With grants ranging from $25,000 to $100,000, they aim to assist organizations in refining their models and preparing for larger investments. The foundation, guided by three brothers, focuses on mentoring and backing social entrepreneurs facing challenges in securing funding for innovative yet untested ideas, fostering a brighter future for communities.
All fields of work Nonprofit Growth & Development

Impact100 Sonoma Grant

Women Giving As One Inc
Private
Sonoma County, California
US $25,000 - US $50,000
Impact100 Sonoma Grant aims to empower women in Sonoma Valley by promoting collective giving and responsible stewardship. The program offers Impetus Grants up to $25,000 to strengthen nonprofits' core missions, alongside an Encore Grant for one recipient to support more complex proposals. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and in operation for at least two years. This initiative fosters a sustainable nonprofit community and provides opportunities for collaboration, enhancing the impact of local organizations.
All fields of work

Catalogue for Philanthropy Grant Program

Catalogue for Philanthropy: Greater Washington
Private
Alexandria City, Virginia, Arlington County, Virginia +10 more
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Catalogue for Philanthropy: Greater Washington connects donors with high-impact nonprofits in the D.C. area, promoting local charities through educational support and visibility. Though not a grant-maker, their partnerships help organizations raise significant funds, enhancing community engagement. Eligible nonprofits must be 501(c)(3) registered, with budgets between $100,000 and $4 million, and based in the greater Washington region. This initiative facilitates development opportunities without financial obligations, showcasing impactful stories through various marketing channels.
All fields of work

Nonprofit Sustainability Initiative Grant - Sustained Collaboration Fund- Exploratory Grant

Southern California Grantmakers
Private
Los Angeles County, California
US $20,000 - US $40,000
The Nonprofit Sustainability Initiative Grant supports organizations in Los Angeles County through the Sustained Collaboration Fund, aimed at fostering strategic partnerships. This exploratory grant allows nonprofits to engage in structured discussions for potential collaborations, enhancing their capacity and sustainability. With funding ranging from $20,000 to $40,000, organizations can hire consultants to facilitate these discussions, ensuring informed decisions that align with their mission and benefit the community.
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SBF: Small Capacity Building Grant Program

Santa Barbara Foundation
Private
Santa Barbara County, California
Up to US $6,000
The Small Capacity Building Grant Program by the Santa Barbara Foundation aims to enhance the effectiveness of local nonprofits by providing grants of up to $6,000. These funds can strengthen organizational capacity through strategic planning, training, and small capital expenditures. The Foundation encourages applications from tax-exempt organizations and emphasizes the importance of clearly stating project needs and readiness. With a competitive selection process, this program supports initiatives that align with the mission of enhancing community outcomes.
All fields of work

KACF: Ted Baldwin Donor Advised Fund Grant

Kearney Area Community Foundation
Private
Buffalo County, Nebraska
Unspecified amount
The KACF: Ted Baldwin Donor Advised Fund Grant supports projects in the Kearney area, following the legacy of the Theodore G. Baldwin Foundation. Established by the Baldwin family, the fund aims to enhance community welfare by providing grants to qualified nonprofits. With over $5 million awarded since its inception, the fund focuses on local initiatives and transitions to Kearney Area Community Foundation for better management and oversight as the Baldwins retire.
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Radiance Gives Fund Grant

Radiance Technologies
Corporate
Adams County, Colorado, Arapahoe County, Colorado +22 more
Unspecified amount
The Radiance Gives Fund Grant, established in 2022 by Radiance Technologies, supports 501(c)(3) organizations in local communities. This employee-run charitable initiative ensures that 100% of contributions go directly to grant awards, enhancing community impact. With no administrative fees deducted, Radiance empowers its employees to make meaningful contributions to the causes they care about, fostering a culture of giving and community support.
All fields of work

KACF: Arthur Klinkacek Community Enrichment Fund

Kearney Area Community Foundation
Private
Buffalo County, Nebraska
More than US $5,000
The KACF: Arthur Klinkacek Community Enrichment Fund supports innovative projects that enhance the quality of life in the Kearney area. Grants typically exceed $5,000 and can provide multi-year funding to eligible 501(c)(3) organizations and public agencies. The program aims to address community needs through unique initiatives, fostering sustainable solutions. Applications are accepted annually, and priority is given to projects demonstrating measurable impact and collaboration, particularly those benefiting underserved populations in Buffalo County.
All fields of work

Community Impact Grants- Digital Marketing

Oshkosh Area Community Foundation
Private
Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin, Green Lake County, Wisconsin +2 more
Up to US $5,000
The Community Impact Grants for Digital Marketing support nonprofits in enhancing their online presence through expert marketing services. Organizations can receive up to 45 hours of assistance, including brand audits, content creation, social media strategies, and SEO guidance. This initiative aims to amplify nonprofit missions, attract volunteers, and encourage donations. Eligible entities must serve specific counties in Wisconsin. A commitment of 1-2 hours per week is required, along with potential co-investment from the applicant.
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Albert Schenk III & Kathleen H. Schenk Charitable Trust Grant

Albert Schenk III & Kathleen H. Schenk Charitable Trust
Corporate
Marshall County, West Virginia, Ohio County, West Virginia
Up to US $80,000
The Albert Schenk III & Kathleen H. Schenk Charitable Trust Grant supports philanthropic efforts in Wheeling, West Virginia, with a history spanning over a century. Established in 1995, the trust emphasizes funding for local organizations that can provide a valid IRS Determination Letter. However, it does not support individuals or cover endowments, operating expenses, or general overhead costs, ensuring that contributions directly benefit the community.
All fields of work

Bama Works Fund Grant

Charlottesville Area Community Foundation
Private
Albemarle County, Virginia, Buckingham County, Virginia +6 more
Up to US $10,000
The Bama Works Fund Grant, provided by the Charlottesville Area Community Foundation, supports local initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life in Charlottesville and surrounding counties. This grant is open to 501(c)(3) organizations and public schools, fostering collaboration and community engagement. The Foundation prioritizes projects that address pressing community needs while ensuring resources are equitably distributed. For more details on eligibility and application processes, visit the Bama Works Fund Policies.
All fields of work

Culpeper Foundation Fund Grant

Northern Piedmont Community Foundation
Private
Culpeper County, Virginia
US $2,500 - US $5,000
The Culpeper Foundation Fund Grant, offered by the Northern Piedmont Community Foundation, supports various community initiatives in Culpeper County, including education, health, and arts. Grants typically range from $500 to $2,500 and are available to nonprofit organizations or projects that benefit local residents. This funding aims to enhance community well-being and preserve the quality of life for all in the area.
All fields of work

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.

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