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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+

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$8.25B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

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

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32,379 Results based on applied filters

Catalyze Challenge Grant

Catalyze
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $300,000
The Catalyze Challenge Grant, managed by Catalyze, is an opportunity for organizations to receive funding for innovative solutions that enhance career-connected learning for youth aged 11-22. With over $4 million available in Round 5, finalists can secure up to $300,000 to implement their ideas. The grant seeks proposals that empower underserved learners through hands-on experiences and meaningful employer partnerships, ultimately impacting over 65,000 young people across the U.S.
Career / College Preparation Educational Access & Equity Academic Success & Enrichment +3 more

RFA- Lead-Safe Homes Program- for a Lead Hazard Reduction

Wisconsin Department of Health Services
State/Local Government
Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Lead-Safe Homes Program (LSHP) invites local partner organizations to apply for grant funding aimed at reducing lead hazards in homes across Wisconsin. With up to $4 million available from October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2026, the program seeks to protect children and pregnant women eligible for Medicaid or BadgerCare. Organizations will be selected based on their ability to coordinate and execute lead hazard reduction efforts, ensuring safe environments for vulnerable populations.
Equitable & Affordable Housing Patient Safety Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health

Friends of the Drug Treatment Court Fund

Berks County Community Foundation
Private
Berks County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Friends of the Drug Treatment Court Fund and Berks County Veterans Treatment Court provide essential financial support to participants in Berks County's treatment courts, enhancing their chances of program graduation. Assistance is directed towards participants facing uncovered expenses, ensuring resources for their rehabilitation journey. The fund also supports staff training and other court-related needs as identified by judges overseeing these programs. Submissions are accepted from January 1 to December 31, 2025, focusing on impactful community support.
Drug Use Disorder Reentry Services Military & Veterans Services

Housing Justice Program Fellowship

Equal Justice Works
Private
Maryland, South Carolina +1 more
Unspecified amount
The Housing Justice Program Fellowship, offered by Equal Justice Works, addresses the urgent need for legal assistance among low-income individuals facing housing instability in Virginia, South Carolina, and Maryland. This two-year fellowship provides legal and organizational training, networking opportunities, and essential support for fellows dedicated to combating eviction and promoting housing justice. Ideal candidates possess strong communication skills and a commitment to community advocacy, making a significant impact in the lives of those at risk of displacement.
Homeownership Equitable & Affordable Housing Economic Rights, Justice, & Mobility +1 more

Knight Foundation Advised Fund

Central Carolina Community Foundation
Private
Richland County, South Carolina
Unspecified amount
The Knight Foundation Advised Fund supports innovative projects that enhance democracy and community engagement in Columbia, SC. With grant amounts typically not exceeding $75,000, it focuses on revitalizing downtown areas and riverfront development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) charities or similar entities serving Columbia or Richland County. The foundation prioritizes civic engagement, smart design, and the arts to foster inclusive public life, while avoiding funding for debt reduction, capital campaigns, or projects with discriminatory practices.
Civic Engagement & Education Parks & Public Spaces Community Development & Revitalization +7 more

Development of Medications to Prevent and Treat Substance Use Disorders and Overdose (UG3/UH3 - Clinical Trial Optional) (358937)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $3,000,000
This NOFO invites applications for innovative research aimed at developing and implementing interventions to prevent and treat substance use disorders (SUDs) and overdose. It encourages studies that can rapidly advance candidate solutions towards regulatory approval or clinical use, while also addressing co-morbid SUDs. The initiative supports a wide range of research including basic, clinical, translational, and implementation strategies to tackle drug misuse and related health issues, such as HIV/AIDS.
Pharmacology Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Drug Use Disorder

Desert Tortoise Council: Regular Grants Program

Desert Tortoise Council
Private
Arizona, Imperial County, California +10 more
US $500 - US $10,000
The Desert Tortoise Council offers a Regular Grants Program to support projects aimed at the conservation and management of desert tortoise populations and their habitats. Grant requests are accepted year-round, with priority given to emergency responses, impactful projects, and those that leverage additional funding. Grants are awarded based on availability and a majority vote by the Board, ensuring that significant conservation issues are addressed effectively.
Herpetology Herpetological Conservation

MCAN: Innovative Program Grants

Michigan College Access Network
Private
Michigan
Up to US $10,000
The Michigan College Access Network (MCAN) offers Innovative Program Grants to enhance college readiness and completion among low-income and first-generation students across Michigan. Grants of up to $10,000 are available to support innovative initiatives that align with MCAN's goal of increasing postsecondary attainment to 60% by 2030. Applicants are encouraged to partner with Local College Access Networks, ensuring a comprehensive approach to community-based educational support.
Career / College Preparation College Success / Persistence Education - K through 12 +2 more

Aquatic Weed Control Program

North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality
State/Local Government
North Carolina
Unspecified amount
The Aquatic Weed Control Program in North Carolina aims to assist local governments and residents in managing noxious aquatic weed infestations. By promoting education and partnerships, the program seeks to mitigate economic and environmental impacts from these invasive species. It offers resources for both public and private lands, including technical assistance and financial support for effective management strategies. Through these efforts, the program strives to enhance the health of North Carolina's waterways.
Invasive Species Control Freshwater Conservation

GA Section 319(h) Nonpoint Source Implementation Grant

Georgia Department of Natural Resources
State/Local Government
Georgia (US state)
Up to US $600,000
The GA Section 319(h) Nonpoint Source Implementation Grant, administered by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, aims to combat nonpoint source pollution through funded projects that enhance water quality across the state. With federal grants covering up to 60% of project costs, applicants can seek funding between $250,000 and $600,000, provided they effectively justify their budgets. This initiative supports the goals outlined in Georgia’s Statewide Nonpoint Source Management Plan.
Freshwater Conservation Water Resource Management

Focused Funds Grants - Fall Deadline

The Columbus Foundation
Private
Franklin County, Ohio
Up to US $25,000
The Focused Funds Grants aim to enhance community welfare through targeted funding in areas such as community improvement, education, health, social services, and support for special populations. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofits. This initiative, backed by The Columbus Foundation, fosters a vibrant community by addressing critical local needs and supporting various initiatives that resonate with donor interests.
Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Education - Higher Education Greening & Beautification +5 more

Teams to Promote Aging in Place in OMH Supportive Housing (TPAP) Grant

New York State Office of Mental Health
State/Local Government
Allegany County, New York, Broome County, New York +42 more
US $300,000 - US $1,500,000

Teams to Promote Aging in Place in OMH Supportive Housing (TPAP) 

Request for Proposals

The purpose of “Teams to Promote Aging in Place in OMH Supportive Housing or TPAP” Geriatric Demonstration Project is to facilitate supportive housing residents aging in place based on their priorities and preferences who are age 55 years and older, as well as residents younger than 55 years living with complex medical conditions that necessitate homecare. Older adults living in OMH supportive housing are at risk of losing community tenure due to emerging unmet care coordination, cross service system navigation, and homecare needs compounded by lack of connection to social determinants of health (SDOH) resources, and community and natural supports. Grant funding will support an enhanced home care rate, provision of at least one paid peer professional, and enhanced care coordination with the local office for aging and community partners that addresses social determinants of health and social engagement needs. OMH supportive housing residents identified as at risk for losing community tenure will be supported by an interdisciplinary care team of (1) an OMH supportive housing case manager, (2) a local office for aging case manager, (3) a homecare professional, and (4) at least one mental health or substance use/gambling peer professional who will collaborate with the residents to identify outstanding service and social needs. This will build a person-centered, holistic plan that is based on the older adult’s priorities and preferences for aging in place. A peer professional in this RFP is defined as a person certified, or provisionally certified, as a mental health Peer Specialist through the New York Peer Specialist Certification Board or a person certified, or provisionally certified, as a substance use/gambling Recovery Peer Advocate through the New York Certification Board. Grantees will also be required to collaborate with community-based organizations across service systems, including mental health, aging, substance use, and gambling harms, that also address social determinants of health and social engagement needs, such as, but not limited to, Social Care Networks, Rural Health Networks, Cornell Cooperative Extension, Older Adult Rural Support Program, Regional Economic Development Councils, or Downtown Revitalization Initiatives. This may include projects focused on community inclusion, the Dwyer Veterans Peer-to-Peer Support Program, club houses, OASAS and OMH recovery centers, older adult centers, faith-based, civic, arts, cultural organizations, etc. To foster sharing of best practices in meeting the holistic needs of OMH supportive housing residents, grantees and their partners will participate in virtual and in-person learning collaboratives that include crossdisciplinary training curriculum consisting of trainings chosen in consultation with the chosen grantees and the Geriatric Interagency Mental Health Substance Use Disorder Planning Council and the Master Plan for Aging advisory groups.

Wrap around funding will be available to provide services and goods not covered through existing reimbursement channels that support aging in place in OMH supportive housing. Examples include, but are not limited to, non-medical transportation, memberships to community groups and/or gyms, continuing education, supplies to support personal interests and hobbies, large print calendars, pill containers, and mobility aids. Wrap-around funding can also be used to provide technological support based on the residents’ needs and preferences. Examples include equipment (laptops, computers, personal devices, and/or internet access), online communities and devices to support engagement (Virtual Senior Centers, GetSetUp, Discover Live interactive virtual tours, animatronic pets, and online support through self-help and peer support groups), and technology literacy classes (for email, video chats with friends, children, grandchildren, etc., banking, patient portals, and education on fraud protection) are additional supports to help people use technology to age in place.

This RFP can be used to expand or enhance existing aging programs in OMH supportive housing or can be used to develop a new program that meets all the program requirements. OMH CR-SROs awarded the “Aging in Place Pilot” grant MH253015 may also apply for this grant for their supportive housing programs.

All types of proposals will be evaluated using the same criteria and applicants must identify the geographic designation they will serve, rural or non-rural. Rural counties in NYS are listed in the table below.

Aging / Gerontology Supportive Housing & Shelters Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health +2 more

Alternative Water Supply Grant

Florida Department of Environmental Protection
State/Local Government
Florida
Unspecified amount
The Alternative Water Supply Grant, supported by Governor DeSantis and the Florida Legislature, allocates $230 million since Fiscal Year 2019-20 to enhance Florida's water systems. This funding emphasizes regional projects addressing critical needs and maximizing benefits, such as reclaimed water, aquifer recharge, and water conservation. Local cooperators must collaborate with their Water Management District to propose projects, which, upon approval, will be submitted to the DEP for funding consideration.
Water Resource Management Freshwater Conservation

Montana Nita M. Lowey 21st CCLC Grant

Montana Office of Public Instruction
State/Local Government
Montana
More than US $250,000
The Montana Nita M. Lowey 21st CCLC Grant provides essential funding for Local Educational Agencies and community organizations to enhance academic enrichment opportunities for students during out-of-school time. With a minimum award of $50,000 per year for five years, this grant supports programs that reinforce regular academic activities and foster literacy and educational development, ultimately aiming to improve outcomes for students and families in the community.
Educational Access & Equity Parental Involvement in Education Education - K through 12 +4 more

Community-Drive Outreach for Hypertension Management and Diabetes Prevention Short Term Project Funding Opportunity

State of Rhode Island Department of Health
State/Local Government
Providence County, Rhode Island
Up to US $4,999
The Rhode Island Department of Health is offering a Short-Term Project Funding Opportunity aimed at promoting hypertension management and diabetes prevention in Providence communities. Eligible organizations can apply for up to $4,999 to create culturally relevant outreach events and materials that encourage the use of preventive health services. This initiative emphasizes community engagement, aiming to address social determinants of health through effective messaging and resource navigation, with project activities expected to run from April to August 2025.
Cardiovascular Diseases & Systems Diabetes Preventative Healthcare +1 more

David J. Morafka Memorial Research Award

Desert Tortoise Council
Private
Clark County, Nevada, Esmeralda County, Nevada +21 more
US $2,500
The David J. Morafka Memorial Research Award, established by the Desert Tortoise Council, offers $2,500 to support research on gopher tortoise species in the southwestern U.S. and Mexico. This award honors Dr. David J. Morafka's contributions to herpetology. Applicants must be affiliated with recognized institutions and present their findings at a Desert Tortoise Council symposium. Evaluation criteria include research significance, originality, and feasibility, ensuring impactful conservation efforts.
Herpetology Herpetological Conservation

Nonpoint Source Pollution Control Grant

Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet
State/Local Government
Kentucky
Unspecified amount
The Nonpoint Source Pollution Control Grant, established under the Clean Water Act, aims to reduce nonpoint source pollution through funding innovative best management practices (BMPs), educational programs, and the development and implementation of Watershed Based Plans. The Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet administers this grant, providing up to 60% of project costs, with a required 40% nonfederal match, fostering sustainable environmental practices across the state.
Water Resource Management Environmental Contamination & Pollution

Noxious Weed Trust Fund (NWTF) Grant Program

Montana Department of Agriculture
State/Local Government
Montana
Up to US $75,000
The Noxious Weed Trust Fund (NWTF) Grant Program, established in 1985 by the Montana Legislature, provides up to $75,000 for noxious weed management programs. It supports local cooperative projects, research, and educational initiatives aimed at effective weed control. Eligible applicants must collaborate with organizations such as county and tribal weed districts. Grant funds cannot be used for administrative costs or equipment purchases, ensuring focus on impactful weed management efforts across Montana.
Agricultural Pest Management Invasive Species Control

Department for Public Health (DPH) - Rural Health Transformation Program Funding Opportunity For Public Health Dental Hygiene Teams in Local Health Departments ​

Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services
State/Local Government
Kentucky
Approximately US $470,000

Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services

Our mission is to be a diverse and inclusive organization providing programs, services and supports that protect and promote the health and well-being of all Kentuckians and their communities.

Rural Health Transformation Program Funding Opportunity For Public Health Dental Hygiene Teams in Local Health Departments 

About the Program

This project is 100% funded by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for a total of $212.9 million in budget year 1 with 100% by CMS/HHS. The RHTF grant spans five budget periods aligned with federal fiscal years (FY2026–FY2030). Funding is disbursed annually by CMS based on achievement of performance metrics.

The Commonwealth of Kentucky has been awarded funding through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Rural Health Transformation Fund (RHTF). This investment will empower Kentucky to launch and implement its Rural Health Transformation Plan (RHTP) — a community-driven strategy to expand access and improve health outcomes for rural residents across the Commonwealth.

Rooted in Health: Rural Dental Access

A key component of Kentucky’s Rooted in Health: Rural Dental Access initiative involves expansion of the PHDH teams that have been serving multiple counties in Kentucky since 2013. Through this grant opportunity, the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is soliciting applications from qualified organizations to establish new or expand current PHDH teams to expand access to rural dental care. The newly created programs must demonstrate commitment to providing services including:

  • Preventive dental hygiene services for children and adults
  • Dental hygiene-focused oral health services for residents of long-term care settings as defined in Kentucky’s Dental Practice Act KRS 216B
  • Teledentistry-enabled preventive care, education, triage, and care coordination

Program Objectives

Funded PHDH programs must demonstrate their willingness and ability to:

  • Increase access to school-based preventive dental hygiene services for all students, regardless of ability to pay.
  • Deliver dental hygiene services in long term care facilities through teledentistry consultation with university dentists.
  • Utilize teledentistry to expand access to care, improve quality and continuity of care, and enable more rural residents to stay in region for dental care and specialty consultations.
  • Integrate Community Health Workers (CHWs) and/or social determinants of health (SDOH) screenings to support patient navigation and continuity of care.
  • Achieve measurable improvements in oral health outcomes and service utilization.
  • Operate in a cost-effective, sustainable, and compliant manner. Compliance is defined as adherence to the provision of hygiene services to the aboveidentified populations within KRS 313. 
Dental Health School Health Telemedicine & Telehealth +2 more

Volunteer Monitoring Lab Analysis Support Grant Program

Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ)
State/Local Government
Montana
Up to US $6,000
The Volunteer Monitoring Lab Analysis Support Grant Program by the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) offers financial assistance up to $5,000 for volunteer monitoring programs. This funding covers laboratory sample analysis and shipping costs related to water quality projects. Applicants must submit a Sampling and Analysis Plan (SAP) and an analytical budget. DEQ emphasizes the importance of volunteer contributions to water quality monitoring and supports educational efforts across Montana's watersheds.
Water Resource Management Freshwater Conservation

NJ Women and Minority Veterans in Construction Trades Grant Program

New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development
State/Local Government
New Jersey
Up to US $1,500,000
The NJ Women and Minority Veterans in Construction Trades Grant Program aims to eliminate economic barriers for women and minority veterans by providing essential training and support for employment in construction trades. This initiative connects military members with quality career opportunities, ensuring they receive the skills necessary for success in registered apprenticeship programs and other industry occupations, ultimately enhancing New Jersey's workforce and economy.
Minority Services Military & Veterans Services Women & Girl Services +3 more

Crown Automotive Charities/Hawkins Family Foundation Sponsorships

Dwayne Hawkins Family Foundation Inc
Private
Catoosa County, Georgia, Delaware County, Ohio +8 more
Unspecified amount

Crown Automotive Charities/Hawkins Family Foundation Grant

The Crown Automotive Charities/Hawkins Family Foundation supports a wide range of non-profit initiatives, including healthcare, animal welfare, education, veterans' services, the arts, community and economic development, housing, and special needs. The Foundation primarily funds organizations in the communities where they operate: Chattanooga, Tennessee, Dublin/Columbus, Ohio, and the Tampa Bay area in Florida.

After an application is submitted, the review process usually takes four to six weeks. However, depending on the specifics of the request or if additional information is needed, the process may take longer.

There are two types of Applications: Grants; and Sponsorships.

Sponsorship Application

This is for requesting support for fundraising events or initiatives that include public visibility, recognition, or promotional opportunities (e.g., galas, golf tournaments, charity walks, benefit dinners). Sponsorships are typically event-based and may include logo placement or other marketing benefits.

Animal Welfare - General Military & Veterans Services Economic Services & Development +4 more

Hathaway Family Foundation Grant

Hathaway Family Foundation Inc
Private
Greenville County, South Carolina
Unspecified amount
The Hathaway Family Foundation Grant aims to enhance the lives of individuals in need within Greenville, South Carolina. This private foundation focuses on improving food security, access to quality healthcare, conservation efforts, and addressing homelessness. By supporting organizations that provide temporary shelters, mental health care, and food distribution, the foundation ensures targeted assistance for the most vulnerable populations. The foundation's commitment reflects a dedication to fostering community well-being and positive change.
Food Access & Hunger Health Care Access & Delivery Parks & Public Spaces +2 more

AISES Indian Motorcycle Academic Scholarship

American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES)
Association/Society
American Samoa, Canada +5 more
US $5,000
The AISES Indian Motorcycle Academic Scholarship offers $5,000 annually to support Native students pursuing degrees in STEM fields. Sponsored by the American Indian Science and Engineering Society, this scholarship aims to empower Indigenous students and enhance diversity in STEM. Eligible applicants must be current AISES members, full-time students, and enrolled citizens or descendants of recognized Native tribes. This scholarship not only provides financial assistance but also fosters community and innovation within the STEM landscape.
STEM / STEAM Education Minority Services Native American Services +4 more

Crown Automotive Charities/Hawkins Family Foundation Grant

Dwayne Hawkins Family Foundation Inc
Private
Catoosa County, Georgia, Delaware County, Ohio +8 more
Unspecified amount
The Hawkins Family Foundation Grant supports diverse non-profit initiatives including healthcare, education, and community development. Primarily funding organizations in Chattanooga, Dublin/Columbus, and Tampa Bay, it requires applicants to be 501(c)(3) public charities or have fiscal sponsors with this status. This grant aims to uplift local communities and enhance the quality of life through various supportive programs.
Animal Welfare - General Military & Veterans Services Economic Services & Development +4 more

Transition Readiness Grants

Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction
State/Local Government
Wisconsin
US $25,000 - US $100,000
The Transition Readiness Grants program, established under 2017 Act 59 with $1.5 million in funding, aims to help Wisconsin students with disabilities transition to competitive work and post-secondary education. Since its inception in FY 2019, it has received over 130 applications totaling more than $9 million. Eligible school districts can apply for FY 24 funding to support evidence-based transition practices, including transportation options, competitive employment training programs, and post-secondary supports.
Teacher Development & Training Children With Disabilities Special Needs Education +2 more

Future Fisheries Improvement Grant Program

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks
State/Local Government
Montana
Approximately US $40,000
The Future Fisheries Improvement Grant Program, managed by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, aims to restore and enhance wild fish habitats in Montana's rivers, streams, and lakes. With annual funding between $500,000 and $650,000, the program supports diverse projects that benefit native fish populations. Eligible applicants include landowners, civic groups, and government agencies. Projects must improve fish habitats and ensure public benefits while adhering to landowner agreements and respecting adjacent property rights.
Fisheries Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Freshwater Conservation +1 more

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.