Upcoming Webinar
How Funders Feel About AI, and What Keeps Them Saying Yes.
Wed, Oct 14 @ 2PM ET

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

32,483 Results based on applied filters

Emergency Solutions Grant Program

West Virginia Department of Economic Development
State/Local Government
West Virginia
Unspecified amount
The Emergency Solutions Grant Program in West Virginia provides crucial support to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. It offers emergency shelter, essential services, and rapid re-housing assistance, aiming to prevent homelessness and promote self-sustainability. Funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, this program collaborates with local agencies to ensure that vulnerable populations receive the help they need to stabilize their housing situations and improve their quality of life.
Community / Public Safety Homelessness Services Supportive Housing & Shelters +2 more

Saint Anthony Park Community Foundation: Community Grants

Saint Anthony Park Community Foundation
Private
Ramsey County, Minnesota
US $1,000 - US $2,500

About Us

Our Mission

The Saint Anthony Park Community Foundation supports charitable and community activities serving the needs of the Saint Anthony Park community, which includes Saint Paul's District 12 boundaries, the University Grove area, 1666 Coffman, the St. Paul Campus of the University of Minnesota, and the Fulham block of Lauderdale. 

Our mission is to nurture the unique community assets of Saint Anthony Park to secure a strong and vibrant neighborhood for future generations. We provide grants to support the development of the following community assets: Education, Arts and Humanities, Children and the Elderly, and the Preservation and Development of our Physical Assets.

Community Grants

Our grants support our ongoing commitment to improving the environment, strengthening learning opportunities, enhancing livability and aging-in place resources, stimulating business vitality, and appreciation of the arts and music. 

In supporting these aspects of our local society, the SAP Community Foundation looks forward to partnering with your organization to make Saint Anthony Park a more resilient and healthy community. 

Social Justice / Human Rights Aging / Gerontology Environment +5 more

Samerian Foundation Grant

Samerian Foundation Inc
Private
Boone County, Indiana, Brown County, Indiana +9 more
Up to US $5,000
The Samerian Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life through financial support for education, economic development, health, youth sports, and humanitarian projects. It primarily focuses on disadvantaged youth and community development in Central Indiana, welcoming applications from 501(c)(3) organizations. The Foundation does not fund general operating expenses or for-profit ventures, ensuring that assistance is directed towards impactful initiatives that align with their mission.
Youth Services Poverty Alleviation & Services Food Access & Hunger +5 more

CTE Innovative Services for Special Populations Grant

Texas Education Agency
State/Local Government
Texas
Up to US $10,000

The Career and Technical Education Innovative Services for Special Populations Grant is intended to support school systems to address gaps in CTE access for students identified as special populations under the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act. This grant will enable school systems to design and implement innovative services that address gaps and disparities identified through the Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment, with a specific focus on improving outcomes for underserved student groups and special populations.

Education Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Career / College Preparation +2 more

Mabel Louise Riley Foundation: Small Grants Fund

Mabel Louise Riley Foundation
Private
Suffolk County, Massachusetts
US $500 - US $5,000
The Mabel Louise Riley Foundation's Small Grants Fund aims to support projects that enhance family life in the Greater Dudley area. Grants range from $500 to $5,000 and prioritize initiatives that foster community engagement, strengthen family connections, and improve neighborhood well-being. Eligible applicants include resident volunteers and local groups, while nonprofit status is not mandatory. The foundation emphasizes activities that promote social cohesion and personal development, ensuring that funds contribute to meaningful community benefits.
Family Services Community Development & Revitalization Greening & Beautification +4 more

DSF Charitable Foundation: Education Grant

DSF Charitable Foundation
Private
Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, Armstrong County, Pennsylvania +7 more
Unspecified amount
The DSF Charitable Foundation offers an Education Grant aimed at supporting projects in education within Southwestern Pennsylvania. Grants are considered three times a year, with inquiries accepted at any time. Organizations must provide a letter of inquiry along with supporting documents, including proof of 501(c)(3) status. Notably, there are restrictions on applying for funding within two years of a declined request or the end of a previous grant period.
Library Services Career / College Preparation Education - Preschool / Early Learning +6 more

Iowa's Living Roadways Community Visioning Grant Program

Trees Forever
Private
Iowa
Unspecified amount
The Iowa's Living Roadways Community Visioning Grant Program aims to enhance transportation in small Iowa communities by fostering strategic planning and community engagement. Participants develop conceptual plans to address local transportation needs, focusing on pedestrian and bicycle facilities, safety education, and beautification efforts. With a commitment of $2,000, eligible communities under 10,000 residents can seek funding sources and technical assistance for project implementation, ensuring that their transportation vision aligns with federal guidelines.
Public Transportation & Mass Transit Systems Community Development & Revitalization Pedestrian & Bike-Friendly Infrastructure +1 more

Peacock Foundation Inc. Grants

Peacock Foundation Inc
Private
Miami-Dade County, Florida
Unspecified amount
The Peacock Foundation Inc. grants support the health and well-being of South Florida's children and families through contributions to eligible 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes proposals that address human services, education, health, youth, elderly care, disabilities, arts for educational purposes, and environmental education. All applicants must submit a letter of inquiry detailing their mission, project description, community served, and funding request. The foundation does not fund capital campaigns, individuals, or lobbying efforts.
Youth Services Art Education Disability Care & Services +4 more

CDV5 Foundation Grant

Cdv5 Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The CDV5 Foundation Grant supports charitable organizations, churches, and government entities that meet IRS 501(c)(3) requirements. This grant aims to nurture successful children, foster stronger families, and cultivate healthier communities. Through partnerships, the foundation provides resources to help individuals reach their full potential. Applicants may submit one request annually for operating, capital, or program support, while event sponsorships are also considered. The foundation encourages applicants to consider their budget and history with the foundation when requesting funding.
Early Childhood Development Youth Development & Leadership Education - Preschool / Early Learning +6 more

Penn National Gaming Foundation Grants

Penn National Gaming
Corporate
Berks County, Pennsylvania, Camden County, Missouri +32 more
Unspecified amount
The Penn National Gaming Foundation Grants support various community initiatives across North America, emphasizing education, health services, and cultural affairs. Launched post-Hurricane Katrina, the foundation aids local nonprofits, enhancing community development, public safety, and veteran support. The grants cater to organizations that address the needs of children, senior citizens, and disadvantaged populations, ensuring a broad impact in areas where Penn National Gaming operates. This commitment reflects the foundation's dedication to uplifting communities and fostering resilience.
Community / Public Safety Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Education - K through 12 +9 more

Journey For Good Grant

Journey for Good Foundation, Inc.
Private
North America
Unspecified amount
The Journey For Good Grant aims to combat poverty by supporting charitable organizations in North America focused on food security, housing, education, and workforce development. The grant prioritizes initiatives that provide nutritional wellness, combat homelessness, and support veterans and their families. By fostering partnerships among nonprofits, government, and business, the foundation addresses the interconnected challenges faced by economically vulnerable individuals, creating sustainable solutions for community empowerment.
Education Food Access & Hunger Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness +2 more

Drug-Free Communities (DFC) Support Program – NEW (Year 1) (363353)

US HHS: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $125,000
The Drug-Free Communities (DFC) Support Program, initiated by the Drug-Free Communities Act of 1997, aims to bolster community coalitions dedicated to preventing youth substance use. Funded by the US HHS's Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), this program focuses on collaboration among various stakeholders, including government and non-profit entities, to effectively reduce substance abuse among youth and promote protective factors within communities.
Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Drug Use Disorder Community / Public Safety

Safeway Foundation - Portland

The Albertsons Companies Foundation
Corporate
Clark County, Washington, Cowlitz County, Washington +1 more
Unspecified amount
The Safeway Foundation, part of the Albertsons Companies Foundation, focuses on supporting nonprofit organizations in Portland, OR, and SW Washington that align with their mission to improve community quality of life. Priorities include health services, hunger relief, education, and supporting diversity. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $5,000, aimed at organizations with a 501(c)(3) designation, ensuring funds are directed towards impactful programs and community initiatives.
Academic Success & Enrichment Education - K through 12 Food Access & Hunger +5 more

Drug-Free Communities (DFC) Support Program – Competing Continuation (Year 6)

US HHS: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $125,000
The Drug-Free Communities (DFC) Support Program aims to foster collaboration among community coalitions to combat youth substance use. Established by the Drug-Free Communities Act of 1997, it encourages partnerships among various stakeholders, including governmental and non-profit agencies. The program focuses on reducing substance use among youth and promoting protective factors within communities. This funding opportunity is available for those who have completed the initial funding cycle or experienced funding interruptions, supporting their ongoing efforts to create a healthier environment for youth.
Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Drug Use Disorder Community / Public Safety

Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions

Costco Wholesale Corporation
Corporate
United States
Unspecified amount
The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.
Youth Services Child Welfare Services Education +4 more

Mapp Family Foundation Grant

Mapp Family Foundation
Private
Autauga County, Alabama, Baldwin County, Alabama +32 more
US $5,000
The Mapp Family Foundation Grant aims to support 501(c)3 organizations in Central & South Mississippi and Coastal Alabama. With a focus on aiding vulnerable people and animals, the foundation encourages applications for grants up to $5,000. The foundation prioritizes compassionate care, striving to enhance the quality of life for those in need. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt entities or governmental agencies, while individuals are ineligible for funding.
Child Abuse & Neglect Sexual Assault / Abuse Poverty Alleviation & Services +3 more

Community-Led Green Infrastructure

Greater New Orleans Foundation
Private
Assumption Parish, Louisiana, Jefferson Parish, Louisiana +11 more
US $50,000 - US $150,000
The Community-Led Green Infrastructure initiative by the New Orleans Community Support Foundation seeks applications from nonprofit and community-based organizations for grants aimed at enhancing environmental health and community resilience. This initiative focuses on developing green infrastructure projects that mitigate flooding and improve water quality, particularly in vulnerable areas of Greater New Orleans. With two funding rounds, the first is open now, while the second will begin in fall 2026.
Environmental Education Water Resource Management Community Development & Revitalization

Meet the Moment Fund Grant

France-Merrick Foundation
Private
Baltimore County, Maryland
Unspecified amount
The Meet the Moment Fund Grant, offered by the France-Merrick Foundation, provides essential short-term financial support to organizations addressing urgent community needs in areas such as health, housing, and education. This fund prioritizes gap support for nonprofits aiming for operational sustainability and strategic collaboration to adapt to sector changes. Eligible organizations must serve the Baltimore area and align with the Foundation's goals while facing potential risks from shifts in public policy or funding.
Economic Services & Development Historic Preservation Poverty Alleviation & Services +4 more

Greater St. Cloud Public Safety Foundation Scholarship

CommunityGiving
Private
United States
US $2,000
The Greater St. Cloud Public Safety Foundation Scholarship, offered by CommunityGiving, aims to support high school seniors, college students, and non-traditional students from Benton, Stearns, or Sherburne County in Minnesota. Eligible applicants should have a GPA of 2.5 or higher and pursue a degree in Criminal Justice or First Responder programs. This scholarship fosters leadership and community involvement, ensuring a lasting impact on public safety and local services.
Academic Scholarship Programs Education - Higher Education Emergency Medical Care & Services +4 more

Grant W. Brissman & Virginia M. Brissman Foundation Grant

Quad Cities Community Foundation
Private
Rock Island County, Illinois
Up to US $10,000
The Grant W. Brissman & Virginia M. Brissman Foundation Grant supports initiatives that enhance youth development, community growth, cultural activities, and relief for underprivileged individuals in Milan, Illinois. Non-profit organizations with 501(c)3 status and governmental agencies serving the area can apply, while projects benefiting the community will be prioritized. The foundation emphasizes compliance with its Diversity and Non-Discrimination Policy, ensuring a fair and equitable grantmaking process.
Vocational & Trade Education Youth Development & Leadership Education +4 more

Community College MTA for Expansion and Renovation Grant

Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO)
State/Local Government
Will County, Illinois
US $20,000,000

Community College Grant for Development and Creation of an MTA

A. Program Description

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (the "Department" or "DCEO") is issuing this Notice of Funding Opportunity ("NOFO") to support the design and construction of a 22,225 square foot facility, within the campus existing footprint, for the creation of a Manufacturing Training Academy (MTA) to provide workforce training programs.

The goal of this program is to support the design and construction of a 22,225 square foot, higher education facility for the creation of a Manufacturing Training Academy, within the campus' existing footprint. This grant will support a community college, located in Will County, Illinois, using capital funds to design and construct an MTA. The MTA will provide a flexible, district-wide training hub to support multiple employers, significantly expanding capacity in high-demand fields, including advanced manufacturing, welding, HVAC, electrical systems, and industrial maintenance, areas where employer demand continues to outpace available talent.

This Manufacturing Training Academy will represent a transformational investment in workforce development, economic growth, and educational access for Will County and the State of Illinois. Through community partnership, the MTA will deliver scalable, industry-driven training that meets immediate employer needs while building long-term career pathways for students.

In addition to grant funds, the awarded grantee must commit to project investment to ensure programmatic quality and long-term sustainability. The awarded grantee will be required to commit to hiring full-time faculty members to support increased enrollment and expand program offerings, curriculum development and implementation based on the needs associated with regional workforce institutions, and investing in the necessary specialized equipment for the MTA to be successful. Examples of the specialized equipment may include welding booths, CNC machining, robotics, and automation.

Education - Higher Education Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Vocational & Trade Education +3 more

Alma Gibbs Donchian Foundation Grants

Alma Gibbs Donchian
Private
United States
Up to US $10,000
The Alma Gibbs Donchian Foundation provides grants primarily to support institutions in Vermont, focusing on issues such as elderly welfare, educational assistance for learning disabilities, and community preservation. Emphasizing partnerships and innovative program models, the Foundation prefers applicants with a strong financial management background. Grants typically range from a few thousand dollars to $20,000, with larger amounts considered for significant impact projects. Eligibility is limited to tax-exempt organizations.
Special Needs Education Communication Disorders Learning Disabilities +4 more

Golden Goldman Fund

Foundation For Jewish Philanthropies
Private
United States
US $2,000 - US $20,000

Our Mission

Empower donors to fulfill their passions and dreams by establishing charitable vehicles designed to create a positive and enduring impact on Jewish Buffalo, Western New York and the World.

Golden Goldman Fund

The Golden Goldman Philanthropic Fund’s mission is to maximize local impact in support of: Women’s issues including reproduction and choice; Arts and Culture; Literacy; Reducing Income Inequality; and Judaism.

Funding will be awarded based on your proposal's potential impact. We will be looking at the applying organizations' fiscal viability and their ability to reach out to underserved individuals as part of our evaluation process. We do not usually provide funding for ongoing, existing programs.

Reproductive Health Women's Health Reproductive Rights +5 more

The LG&E and KU Foundation: Powering Community Impact

Lg&E and Ku Foundation Inc.
Corporate
Indiana, Kentucky
Unspecified amount
The LG&E and KU Foundation is dedicated to enhancing community welfare by supporting nonprofit organizations that address essential needs. Every year, the foundation awards grants to initiatives focused on student success, essential services, child protection, community building, and cultural promotion. Additionally, through the Power of One campaign, employees and retirees contribute to charitable efforts, raising nearly $9 million to support local nonprofits, alongside volunteering over 20,000 hours annually.
Art & Culture Education Economic Services & Development +4 more

Main Street Matters: Business Improvement Grants

Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development
State/Local Government
Pennsylvania
Up to US $100,000
The Main Street Matters program aims to enhance downtown areas and neighborhoods through targeted investment in revitalization and safety improvements. Eligible entities, including local governments and nonprofits, can access grants for business enhancement initiatives, which may include microgrants and forgivable loans. These funds support capital investments and operational costs for businesses, contributing to vibrant community development. The initiative emphasizes strategic planning and documented demand for funding, ensuring effective use of resources.
Entrepreneurship Microfinance Community Development & Revitalization +2 more

Douglas Bomford Trust Studentships

The Douglas Bomford Trust
Private
United Kingdom
Up to £1,500
The Douglas Bomford Trust Studentships aim to support undergraduate students in agricultural engineering or technology. These competitive awards, valued up to £1,500, promote academic and personal growth while encouraging successful careers in the industry. Eligible applicants must be registered in a relevant course in the UK or Ireland and demonstrate commitment to the Trust's objectives, pursuing all available funding sources to achieve personal and educational outcomes.
Agriculture Horticulture & Gardening Forestry

Professional Development Award Region 3 Network

National Library of Medicine
Federal Government
Arkansas, Kansas +5 more
US $2,000
The Professional Development Award aims to enhance the capabilities of individuals affiliated with Region 3 Network Member institutions. This funding supports attendance at seminars and workshops focused on data science and health information access, promoting improved health literacy and equity. The NNLM encourages projects that empower underrepresented communities and healthcare professionals. Applications are open until funds are exhausted or April 1, 2024, with a singular award per annual performance cycle.
Preventative Healthcare Library Services Diversity, Equity & Inclusion +5 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.