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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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32,478 Results based on applied filters

Richard and Mary Myerly Scholarship

Community Foundation of Washington County Maryland
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Richard and Mary Myerly Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Washington County, MD, supports low-income students pursuing careers in photography or fine arts at accredited institutions. Established in memory of Richard and Mary Myerly, this scholarship invites applications from students in Washington County and surrounding areas, promoting educational opportunities and honoring community values. With over 100 scholarships available, this initiative aims to empower the next generation of artists and photographers.
Education - Higher Education Education - High School Academic Scholarship Programs +4 more

NC Specialty Crop Block Grant Program

North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services
State/Local Government
North Carolina
Up to US $200,000
The NC Specialty Crop Block Grant Program aims to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops such as fruits, vegetables, and nursery crops. Administered by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services, the program offers funding to support projects that improve food safety, research, and distribution efficiency. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and government agencies. This initiative promotes sustainable practices and increases nutrition knowledge related to specialty crops, benefiting both producers and consumers.
Agricultural Crops Sustainable Agriculture & Agroecology Food Safety +2 more

Andersons Fund Supporting Organization

Toledo Community Foundation
Private
Defiance County, Ohio, Fulton County, Ohio +18 more
More than US $20,000
The Andersons Fund Supporting Organization aims to enhance the quality of life for individuals and families in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan, particularly in the greater Toledo area. It supports nonprofit organizations with grants for programs in education, social services, mental health, urban affairs, natural resources, and the arts. The Fund prioritizes capital projects and evaluates the financial stability and operational issues of requesting organizations.
Education Human & Social Services Health & Medicine +6 more

Training Program in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities

The Childrens Hospital Of Philadelphia
Private
Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Training Program in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute offers advanced training for individuals pursuing careers in neuroscience and neurodevelopmental research. Established in 1998, it emphasizes the understanding of disabilities linked to chromosomal defects and trauma. Trainees engage in hands-on research, develop critical skills, and collaborate with esteemed scientists, aiming to become leaders in their field. The program actively encourages applications from underrepresented minority groups to foster diversity in scientific research.
Neuroscience Neurological Diseases & Disorders Learning Disabilities +3 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

Watershed Association Professional Development Mini-Grants

Lake Champlain Basin Program
State/Local Government
Addison County, Vermont, Bennington County, Vermont +13 more
Up to US $500
The Watershed Association Professional Development Mini-Grants support staff and volunteers of watershed organizations in the Lake Champlain Basin. These grants cover costs for professional development activities aimed at enhancing water quality and organizational capacity. Eligible organizations include 501c3 nonprofits focused on water stewardship. Preference is given to those with previous LCBP contracts exceeding $4,000. Applications are accepted monthly, with awards announced shortly after deadlines.
Freshwater Conservation Water Resource Management

Artists & Scholars Project Grant

Arts and Humanities Council of Montgomery County
Private
Montgomery County, Maryland
US $1,000 - US $5,000
The Artists & Scholars Project Grant supports individual artists and scholars residing in Montgomery County, MD, for projects in diverse arts and humanities disciplines. Aimed at fostering creativity and enhancing skills, the grant encourages innovative work that reflects the multicultural essence of the community. By promoting strategies for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access (DEIA), the Arts & Humanities Council of Montgomery County aims to nurture talent and support distinctive artistic endeavors between May 1, 2026, and April 30, 2027.
History Writing & Literature Philosophy +7 more

Eastern Illinois Foodbank Partnerships

Eastern Illinois Foodbank
Private
Champaign County, Illinois, Clark County, Illinois +15 more
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
Eastern Illinois Foodbank seeks to enhance its network of partner agencies dedicated to alleviating hunger. Organizations must be located within a specified 18-county area and possess 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, or align with a qualifying umbrella organization. Partners are expected to maintain secure food storage, establish a budget for operational costs, and utilize the Link2Feed electronic system for record-keeping. This initiative ensures effective resource distribution and supports community members in need.
Food Delivery & Distribution Services Food Access & Hunger Food Security

CDBGPF Design, Engineering, and Environmental Clearance (DEEC) Grant

Colorado Department of Local Affairs
State/Local Government
Alamosa County, Colorado, Archuleta County, Colorado +57 more
Up to US $50,000
The CDBGPF Design, Engineering, and Environmental Clearance (DEEC) Grant, administered by the Colorado Department of Local Affairs, supports local governments in enhancing community infrastructure. This grant assists eligible applicants with vital design, engineering, and environmental clearance activities for projects that benefit low to moderate income communities. Projects can include water systems, community centers, and more, aimed at fostering development and addressing urgent community needs.
Public Infrastructure Water Resource Management

Hudson-Webber Foundation Grant

Hudson-Webber Foundation
Private
Wayne County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Hudson-Webber Foundation Grant supports community initiatives in Detroit, focusing on four mission areas: Arts & Culture, Built Environment, Community & Economic Development, and Safe & Just Communities. While the inquiry process is currently paused until January 31, 2025, the foundation encourages potential grantees to connect if their work aligns with its mission. The foundation has invested over $200 million in Detroit nonprofits, emphasizing collaborative efforts to enhance community well-being and economic opportunities.
Community Development & Revitalization Employment Services Civic Affairs +6 more

Grant for Improvements to Facilities located on Existing Homesteads

Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL)
State/Local Government
Hawaii
Up to US $1,000,000
The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) offers a grant program to improve facilities on existing homesteads, supporting Native Hawaiian communities. This initiative enhances infrastructure, health services, and cultural facilities, fostering sustainable development. Nonprofits and community associations can apply for funding to strengthen homestead communities and increase access to vital services. Grants are awarded based on project readiness, organizational capacity, and community involvement, aiming to improve the quality of life for Native Hawaiian beneficiaries.
Land / Habitat Conservation Homeownership Native American Services +1 more

Goldberg, Joseph and Ruth, Scholarship

Beatrice Educational Foundation
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount
The Goldberg, Joseph and Ruth Scholarship, offered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, aims to support students pursuing medical professions, such as nursing, dental, and physical therapy. Established in 1987, the Foundation provides over $55,000 annually in scholarships to Beatrice High School seniors. Eligible applicants must be in the top quarter of their class and complete the application independently. This scholarship is part of the Foundation's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities in the Beatrice School District.
Academic Scholarship Programs Education - Higher Education Medical Education & Professional Training +4 more

Equity Workforce Training Implementation Grants (MA)

Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC)
State/Local Government
Massachusetts
Up to US $1,200,000
The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) offers Equity Workforce Training Implementation Grants to enhance access to training for individuals from underrepresented communities. Grants of up to $1,200,000 are available over two to three years for projects that create career pathways in climate-critical occupations. Applicants can propose initiatives focused on employment training, pipeline preparedness for adult learners, or capacity planning for effective training programs, aiming to address existing barriers and foster employer engagement.
Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Green Economy & Jobs Climate Change Resilience & Equity

Emergency Solutions Grant ( IN )

City of Indianapolis: Department of Metropolitan Development (DMD)
State/Local Government
Marion County, Indiana
Unspecified amount
The Indianapolis Emergency Solutions Grant provides vital assistance to the community by funding emergency shelter, rapid re-housing, street outreach, and homelessness prevention services. Managed by the City of Indianapolis' Department of Metropolitan Development, this grant is available annually to non-profit organizations, with applications released in the fall and awards announced in the winter. The program is designed to address homelessness through targeted support based on population demographics, ensuring that essential services reach those in need.
Homelessness Services Supportive Housing & Shelters Equitable & Affordable Housing

Lifetime Contribution to the AAAAI and Allergy / Immunology Specialty Award

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI)
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount
The Lifetime Contribution to the AAAAI and Allergy/Immunology Specialty Award honors individuals who have made significant and enduring contributions to the AAAAI and the allergy/immunology field. Awardees are recognized for exemplary service, leadership in professional organizations, impactful research, and mentorship of trainees. This prestigious accolade underscores the recipient's dedication to advancing the specialty and improving patient care, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and leadership in the field.
Immune System Diseases Allergies & Allergic Diseases Asthma

Inclement Weather Surge Capacity Grant

City of Spokane
State/Local Government
Spokane County, Washington
Unspecified amount
The Inclement Weather Surge Capacity Grant is designed to support Homeless Service Providers in offering temporary emergency shelter beds during severe weather conditions. With an annual budget of $250,000, the City of Spokane seeks effective strategies to ensure safety by activating at least 10 beds in response to extreme temperatures or poor air quality. This funding aims to enhance existing programs and infrastructure rather than establish new shelters, promoting community collaboration to meet urgent sheltering needs.
Homelessness Services Supportive Housing & Shelters Climate Change Resilience & Equity

Reinberger Foundation: Human Service Grants

Reinberger Foundation
Private
Cuyahoga County, Ohio, Delaware County, Ohio +7 more
Unspecified amount
The Reinberger Foundation offers Human Service Grants to support organizations helping underserved individuals achieve self-sufficiency and community enrichment. Priority is given to those who have received funding in the past five years. Eligible organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status and serve within Ohio, particularly in Cuyahoga and Franklin counties. The foundation focuses on critical areas such as housing stability, food insecurity, and family violence.
Domestic Violence Supportive Housing & Shelters Food Security

Allied Arts: Educational Outreach - Winter Cycle

Allied Arts Of Oklahoma Inc
Private
Canadian County, Oklahoma, Cleveland County, Oklahoma +8 more
Up to US $5,000
The Allied Arts Educational Outreach program supports nonprofit arts organizations that provide arts experiences for underserved youth in Oklahoma. With a focus on K-12 students, this initiative expands outreach to veterans and marginalized communities. Organizations can apply for cash grants up to $5,000, along with Hobby Lobby gift cards, to foster artistic engagement and cultural enrichment. This funding aims to ensure a sustainable cultural landscape in central Oklahoma and promote inclusivity in the arts.
Disability Care & Services Military & Veterans Services Education - K through 12 +6 more

RFP for Maternal Health Hub and Spoke

Iowa Department of Health and Human Services
State/Local Government
Iowa
Unspecified amount

Iowa Department of Health and Human Services

Iowa HHS provides high quality programs and services that protect and improve the health and resiliency of individuals, families, and communities.

Maternal Health Hub and Spoke

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (the Agency) is providing this notice of intent to release a request for proposal (RFP) on or around July 2026, for Maternal Health Hub and Spoke networks. This procurement is for establishing the framework for hub and spoke networks of care for the delivery of maternal health care in Iowa. The Agency anticipates successful applicants will be required to complete some activities related to behavioral health care for the maternal health population.

The Agency anticipates that this work may include forming rural provider strategic partnerships, advancing telehealth, establishing referral networks and agreements (particularly among non-affiliated provider organizations), provider recruitment, equipment purchases and associated minor renovations, and other funds needed to establish or advance the provision of maternal health care at hub and spoke sites. Please see the Agency’s Rural Health Transformation Grant website (Rural Health Transformation (RHT) | Health & Human Services) for additional information about the Healthy Hometowns initiative.

Maternal And Perinatal Health Rural Health Care Telemedicine & Telehealth

PCCF Community Impact Grants Program

Putnam County Community Foundation
Private
Putnam County, Indiana
More than US $5,000
The PCCF Community Impact Grants Program aims to support diverse charitable initiatives in Putnam County, Indiana. By providing funding to qualified non-profit organizations, the program fosters positive change across various sectors including animal welfare, education, health, and community development. The Putnam County Community Foundation encourages innovative projects that uplift residents and strengthen community ties, making a lasting impact on local lives.
Environment Education Art & Culture +10 more

RFP-2027-DPH-03-INSUR (DoIT #2026-047): Insurance Benefit and Medical Claims Management for Clients Living With Human Immunodeficiency Virus

New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services
State/Local Government
New Hampshire
Unspecified amount

Department of Health and Human Services

DHHS is the largest agency in New Hampshire state government, responsible for the health, safety and well-being of the citizens of New Hampshire. DHHS provides services for individuals, children, families and seniors, and administers programs and services such as mental health, developmental disability, substance misuse, and public health. This is accomplished through partnerships with families, community groups, private providers, other state and local government entities, and many citizens throughout the State who help make New Hampshire a special place in which to live.

RFP-2027-DPH-03-INSUR (DoIT #2026-047): Insurance Benefit and Medical Claims Management for Clients Living With Human Immunodeficiency Virus

The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Public Health is seeking responses to this Request for Proposals (RFP) from qualified Vendors to provide insurance benefit and medical claim management services on behalf of individuals living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) who are enrolled in the New Hampshire CARE Program (NH CARE). 

HIV / AIDS Health Insurance

Maxinmotion Grants

Maxinmotion
Private
Arizona, California
Unspecified amount
MaxInMotion Grants provide essential financial support to youth sports organizations in Arizona and California, ensuring that financially challenged children can participate in sports programs. This funding not only promotes physical fitness but also fosters character development, teamwork, and academic excellence among youth. By prioritizing inclusivity, MaxInMotion aims to create equal athletic opportunities for all children, including those with special needs. The foundation is dedicated to combating the negative impacts of reduced sports access in low-income communities.
Sports & Athletics Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Hockey +4 more

Buell Foundation Grant

Temple Hoyne Buell Foundation
Private
Colorado
Unspecified amount
The Buell Foundation Grant supports organizations that enhance children's education and development in Colorado. Focused on underserved communities, it prioritizes early childhood programs, evaluations, and quality improvements. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $50,000, directing funds to those committed to impactful initiatives. Applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations or government entities with a dedication to non-discrimination and community engagement. The foundation aims to create sustainable support for programs that foster positive outcomes for children.
Reproductive Education Early Childhood Development Education - Preschool / Early Learning +3 more

The Research Foundation: Community Grants

The Research Foundation
Private
Jackson County, Missouri
Unspecified amount
The Research Foundation is launching community grants to enhance health access and equity in Kansas City, particularly for Jackson County residents. Eligible nonprofit organizations can receive support for programs that align with the foundation's priorities, including a 10% allowance for indirect costs. The focus is on health-centric missions, ensuring the funding promotes care access and workforce retention in the healthcare sector, while adhering to the foundation's guidelines.
Health Care Access & Delivery Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health Epidemiology & Public Health +4 more

DNR Urban Forestry Development Grant

Iowa Department of Natural Resources
State/Local Government
Iowa
US $10,000 - US $50,000

Iowa Department of Natural Resources

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages fish and wildlife programs, ensures the health of Iowa’s forests and prairies, and provides recreational opportunities in Iowa’s state parks.

Just as importantly, the DNR carries out state and federal laws that protect air, land and water through technical assistance, permitting and compliance programs. The DNR also encourages the enjoyment and stewardship of natural resources among Iowans through outreach and education. Our mission is to conserve and enhance our natural resources in cooperation with individuals and organizations to improve the quality of life in Iowa and ensure a legacy for future generations.

Urban Forestry Development Grant

Through the USDA Forest Service Inflation Reduction Act, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is a pass-through partner for the Urban Forestry Development grants for communities.

The Urban Forestry Development Grant provides reimbursable grants to complete projects such as creating community forestry plans, building urban food forests, hosting educational programming, and workforce development through forestry internships. The grant is a two-year program.

The Urban Forestry Development grants are available to community governmental entities, volunteer organizations, and service organizations involved with local urban and community forest services, to improve management, care, and public engagement with trees growing in parks, natural areas, and along public rights-of-way. Grants will also support projects in Iowa communities through investments in community-identified urban forestry needs, advancing environmental or health benefits.

Forestry Greening & Beautification Environmental Education

TC Energy’s Social Impact Program - Build Strong

Tc Energy Foundation
Private
Arizona, Arkansas +38 more
US $2,500 - US $25,000
TC Energy’s Build Strong program supports vital organizations in communities near its operations. By providing grants, scholarships, and in-kind support, the program aims to enhance safety, education, environmental protection, and community well-being. Eligible applicants include non-profits and community groups addressing local needs. Ineligible activities include operational expenses and for-profit endeavors. The program prioritizes projects demonstrating measurable community impact, fostering a collaborative relationship between TC Energy and local stakeholders.
Environmental Conservation Environment Food Security +2 more

Agricultural Energy Grant Program

Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources
State/Local Government
Michigan
Up to US $20,000

Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources

The Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources’ (OER) mission is to lead the state toward a clean, affordable, reliable, and equitable energy future. OER develops policies and programs that respond to the state's evolving energy needs, while advancing environmental sustainability, energy security, and a vibrant clean energy economy. OER is committed to working with public- and private-sector stakeholders to ensure that all Rhode Islanders have access to cost-effective, resilient, and sustainable energy solutions.

Agricultural Energy Grant Program

The Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources (OER) and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) request Rhode Island Agricultural Operations to submit applications seeking funding for energy projects in an effort to improve energy efficiency, promote renewable energy, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 

The following clean energy investments and technologies will be considered eligible for this program, so long as each proposed project meets all program requirements.

  • Renewable Energy: Photovoltaics (PV); Small Scale Wind; Biomass; Energy Storage
  • Energy Efficiency: Envelope Insulation; LED Lighting; HVAC Systems (especially heat pump technologies); Automatic Temperature Controls; Variable Speed Motors, Drives, & Pumps; Solar Thermal
Renewable/Sustainable Energy Energy Efficiency & Conservation Agriculture +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.

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.