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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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32,499 Results based on applied filters

Nicholson Family Foundation Grant

Nicholson Family Foundation
Private
Alameda County, California, Monterey County, California +3 more
Up to US $5,000
The Nicholson Family Foundation Grant supports organizations that empower underserved youth in arts, education, and social services across Northern California. Established in 1996, the foundation provides small grants that create meaningful impacts, reinforcing community ties. Eligible organizations may reapply every three years, ensuring ongoing support for impactful initiatives. The foundation prioritizes operational support and encourages collaborations with new organizations, fostering a sustainable philanthropic environment.
Youth Services Youth Involvement in the Arts Child Welfare Services +4 more

PennHOSA Foundation Scholarship

The Foundation for Enhancing Communities
Private
United States
US $2,500
The PennHOSA Foundation Scholarship promotes healthcare careers by providing scholarships to HOSA student members in Pennsylvania. It aims to enhance compassionate care delivery and community needs. Additionally, the Helen Heidelbaugh Aspire Award is given to one student focusing on community service. Eligible applicants must be HOSA members and enrolled in accredited healthcare programs, demonstrating financial need. This scholarship is a one-time award, reinforcing the commitment to future healthcare professionals.
Education - Higher Education Volunteerism & Philanthropy Medical Education & Professional Training +3 more

The Kaulig Foundation Grants

Kaulig Foundation
Private
Ashland County, Ohio, Ashtabula County, Ohio +14 more
Unspecified amount
The Kaulig Foundation grants aim to enhance the well-being of children and families in Northeast Ohio by supporting 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation focuses on healthcare solutions for children, providing comfort and safety to families, and nurturing children's potential through education and the arts. By funding exemplary programs, it seeks to make a meaningful impact in the community, ensuring that children thrive physically, emotionally, and educationally.
Family Services Child Welfare Services Social / Emotional Learning & Development +4 more

WKCF: Women of Purpose Grant

Western Kansas Community Foundation
Private
Finney County, Kansas, Grant County, Kansas +13 more
Unspecified amount
The WKCF: Women of Purpose Grant aims to empower organizations addressing crucial issues affecting women in Western Kansas. By focusing on innovative projects that promote female leadership, mentorship, and community impact, this grant encourages collaboration and sustainability. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations serving specific Kansas counties. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that demonstrate broad community benefits and effective use of resources. Submit applications early to avoid technical issues and ensure consideration for funding.
Women & Girl Services Women's Health Women's Rights & Equality +3 more

Lake Forest Garden Club Grant

Lake Forest Garden Club
Private
Cook County, Illinois, DuPage County, Illinois +4 more
Unspecified amount
The Lake Forest Garden Club Grant supports community initiatives focused on gardening, horticultural education, and conservation. It prioritizes projects in Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, and Lake County, Illinois. Eligible organizations are encouraged to apply for funding for public, accessible projects such as environmental education and historic garden restoration. The club aims to partner with groups that share its mission of enhancing community engagement and promoting sustainable practices, with a preference for single-year projects.
Environmental Education Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Land / Habitat Conservation +2 more

Tick-borne Pathogen Award

Bay Area Lyme Foundation
Private
United States
US $150,000
The Tick-borne Pathogen Award, sponsored by Bay Area Lyme Foundation, offers $150,000 to support innovative research on non-Borrelia tick-borne pathogens. This grant aims to attract scientific talent to explore co-infections with Lyme disease and other related infections. Eligible candidates include researchers from academia or the private sector at the post-doctoral level or higher, with a focus on improving diagnostics and therapies for tick-borne diseases. Applications must present a viable proof-of-concept project.
Microbiology Infectious & Parasitic Diseases Lyme Disease +1 more

Bower Foundation Grant

Bower Foundation
Private
Mississippi
Unspecified amount
The Bower Foundation Grant supports innovative strategies to enhance the health of Mississippians through various initiatives. Organizations seeking funding must submit a Grant Concept Summary for consideration. The foundation focuses on improving healthcare access, promoting healthy lifestyles among children, developing innovative health policies, and addressing End Stage Renal Disease. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt organizations and those committed to enhancing health in Mississippi.
Health Policy & Advocacy Health Care Access & Delivery Kidney Diseases +2 more

Jack Buell Forest Education Grant

Idaho Forest Products Commission
State/Local Government
Idaho
Up to US $1,000
The Jack Buell Forest Education Grant, offered by the Idaho Forest Products Commission, aims to enhance forest education for Idaho's youth. Grants up to $1,000 are available for projects encouraging hands-on learning experiences in forests or related facilities. Eligible applicants include teachers and educators working with youth. Applications open on August 1 and close on October 15, with all projects required to be completed by July 31.
Forestry Education - K through 12

Trauma-Informed Substance Use Prevention Program (TISUPP)

Arizona Governor's Office of Youth, Faith and Family
State/Local Government
Arizona
Up to US $200,000

Trauma-Informed Substance Use Prevention Program (TISUPP) 

Governor Katie Hobbs’ Office of Youth, Faith and Family, issues this Request for Grant Application (RFGA) Solicitation concerning the Arizona Trauma-Informed Substance Use Prevention Program (TISUPP) in accordance with A.R.S. §41-2701. Applications for this program will only be accepted through the State’s web-based grants management system, Euna Grants (formerly eCivis). 

The GOYFF Trauma-Informed Substance Use Prevention Program (TISUPP) establishes a critical investment in community-level and institutional protective factors designed to mitigate the long-term risk of substance use and poor health outcomes. Supported by funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), GOYFF extends this grant opportunity to Arizona community partners with the specific goal of bolstering protection against substance use within high-need communities across the state.

TISUPP is a comprehensive approach to substance use primary prevention and focuses on the root causes of substance use, using a trauma-informed approach for implementation. Primary prevention is a strategy used to stop substance use before it ever starts. Instead of waiting for a problem to happen and then trying to fix it, primary prevention focuses on keeping healthy people healthy. This approach works by helping people learn about the risks of drugs and alcohol. It also focuses on building strong, safe communities so that people do not feel the need to start using substances in the first place.

Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Drug Use Disorder

N.C. Forest Service - Timber Loss Relief Grant

North Carolina Forest Service
State/Local Government
Alexander County, North Carolina, Alleghany County, North Carolina +37 more
Unspecified amount

N.C. Forest Service - Timber Loss Relief Program

Program Overview

The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services was awarded a U.S. Department of Agriculture block grant to support Hurricane Helene recovery. Part of these disaster recovery funds will be administered by the N.C. Forest Service through a new Timber Loss Relief Program (TLRP). TLRP funds will be used to partially compensate eligible woodland owners for the value of timber loss as a result of Hurricane Helene. 

Forestry Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid

Native Forward Scholars Fund Internship Assistance Program

Native Forward Scholars Fund
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount
The Native Forward Scholars Fund Internship Assistance Program empowers Native students by providing financial support for internships in non-STEM fields. This initiative breaks down financial barriers, enabling students to gain practical experience in areas like public policy, education, and cultural preservation. Through this program, students enhance their skills while contributing positively to their Tribal communities. The funding covers essential costs such as travel and living expenses, ensuring transparency and accountability in financial assistance.
Public Policy Education - Higher Education Academic Success & Enrichment +4 more

VCF: Opportunity Fund for Southshire Youth Grant

Vermont Community Foundation
Private
Bennington County, Vermont
US $500 - US $10,000
The Opportunity Fund for Southshire Youth, established by the Vermont Community Foundation, aims to empower teenagers in several communities through grants for innovative programs. Set to begin in 2025, the fund will support youth-led events and initiatives that foster connection and belonging. Grant amounts range from $500 to $10,000, encouraging grassroots organizations and first-time applicants to apply. This initiative addresses the needs of youth facing hardships and promotes inclusive opportunities.
Youth Services Youth Development & Leadership STEM / STEAM Education +2 more

BIE Professional Development Funding for STEM Educators and Students

Native Forward Scholars Fund
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount
The BIE Professional Development Funding for STEM Educators and Students, offered by the Native Forward Scholars Fund, supports training opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) for TCU faculty, staff, and students. This funding assists with costs related to professional development including continuing education, conferences, and certifications. Eligible applicants include educators at BIE-funded or controlled schools, as well as those at institutions with significant Native American populations, fostering increased representation and support for Native scholars.
Education - Higher Education Academic Success & Enrichment Native American Services +4 more

RiverSmart Homes Rain Barrel Installation and Rebate Program

District of Columbia Department of Energy & Environment (DOEE)
State/Local Government
District of Columbia
Approximately US $521,000
The RiverSmart Homes Rain Barrel Installation and Rebate Program, administered by the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE), aims to reduce stormwater runoff and enhance water conservation in Washington, D.C. This grant invites eligible nonprofit organizations, faith-based entities, and educational institutions to apply for funding to install rain barrels, recycle them, and issue rebates. The program seeks to improve public understanding of stormwater management and its impact on local waterways.
Freshwater Conservation Environmental Contamination & Pollution Green Infrastructure +1 more

Big Bald Dave Adventure Scholarship

Yellowstone Club Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Big Bald Dave Adventure Scholarship, provided by the Yellowstone Club Community Foundation, honors Dave Mueller's passion for outdoor adventure. It offers a unique summer trip for Big Sky students in grades 9-11 who demonstrate leadership and a love for the outdoors. Supported by Adventures Cross Country, this scholarship is a wonderful opportunity for students to engage in enriching experiences while giving back to the community. Notably, it is not based on financial need.
Academic Success & Enrichment Education - High School Student Retention & Drop-Out Prevention +2 more

Illinois Community Canopy: Tree Removal Grant Program

Trees Forever
Private
Illinois
Up to US $25,000 in in-kind support
The Illinois Community Canopy: Tree Removal Grant Program, funded by Trees Forever, aims to assist communities in managing their tree canopies by providing grants for the removal of dead, dying, or damaged trees. This initiative is crucial for safety and environmental health, especially in areas affected by the Emerald Ash Borer and natural disasters. Eligible communities can also apply for tree planting grants to replace the removed trees, fostering a sustainable urban ecosystem.
Forestry Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid

Performance Excellence Grants

Asfari Foundation
Private
Jordan, Lebanon +2 more
Up to £7,000
The Performance Excellence Grants by the Asfari Foundation aim to empower organizations in the Levant by strengthening specific functions such as governance, human resources, and financial management. With a grant of £7,000 and expert technical support, eligible organizations can enhance their capacity for sustainable development and community impact. The grants are open year-round, emphasizing transparency and collaboration, and prioritize small to medium-sized organizations committed to social missions.
Governance & Democracy Civic Engagement & Education Civic Affairs +5 more

The Peter D. Johnson Memorial Scholarship Fund

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

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

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

Scholarships

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

The Peter D. Johnson Memorial Scholarship Fund

This scholarship is in memory of Peter D. Johnson. Mr. Johnson was a loving husband and father, a concerned and giving member of the community, and had a passion for enjoying all the benefits of water-skiing.

This scholarship is intended to promote the pursuit of excellence in youth and encourage mental and physical development through involvement in community, academics, employment, water ski clubs and other social activities.

Education - Higher Education Education - High School Academic Scholarship Programs +3 more

Lexington Area Community Foundation Grant Cycle

Foundation for the Carolinas
Private
Davidson County, North Carolina
Up to US $10,000
The Lexington Area Community Foundation Grant Cycle aims to inspire philanthropy and strengthen the community by funding initiatives that address local needs. Grants, typically up to $5,000 and occasionally $10,000 for innovative projects, prioritize education, health, and human services. Eligible organizations include nonprofits and educational institutions serving Lexington, NC. The Foundation seeks measurable results in funded programs while avoiding duplication of existing services. Interested applicants should ensure their projects align with the Foundation's community investment guidelines.
Art & Culture Education Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness +4 more

PERF: Career Development Grants - CNS Shields Research Grant

Pediatric Epilepsy Research Foundation
Private
Canada, United States
US $150,000
The PERF: Career Development Grants - CNS Shields Research Grant supports early-stage investigators in pediatric neurology research. Offered by the Pediatric Epilepsy Research Foundation and the Child Neurology Society, this grant provides $150,000 over two years. Eligible applicants must be within 10 years of completing their terminal degree and have not received independent funding. The grant emphasizes clinical research, fostering advancements in the treatment of pediatric neurological conditions.
Neuroscience Neurological Diseases & Disorders Children’s Health & Pediatrics +1 more

PERF: Career Development Grants - CNS Elterman Research Grant

Pediatric Epilepsy Research Foundation
Private
Canada, United States
US $150,000
The PERF: Career Development Grants - CNS Elterman Research Grant, established by the Pediatric Epilepsy Research Foundation in partnership with the Child Neurology Society, supports early-stage investigators in pediatric neurology. Eligible candidates can receive $150,000 over two years to conduct clinical or basic science research. This initiative aims to foster the development of researchers focused on pediatric epilepsy and related conditions, enhancing the field through innovative studies and collaboration.
Children’s Health & Pediatrics Epilepsy Neurological Diseases & Disorders +1 more

Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program

State of New Jersey Department of Health
State/Local Government
New Jersey
Up to US $1,244,222

New Jersey Department of Health

The scope of work for the public health system is ever-expanding, and the Department is on the frontlines in leading the response to public health challenges. The Department has three primary branches – Public Health Services, Health Systems, and Integrated Health. All work collaboratively toward improving health by strengthening New Jersey’s health system.

Our Mission: Protect the public’s health, promote healthy communities, and continue to improve the quality of health care in New Jersey

Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program

Purpose for Which the Grant Program Funds Shall be Used

The Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program supports pregnant people and parents with young children who live in communities that face greater risks and barriers to achieving positive maternal and child health outcomes. Families choose to participate in home visiting programs and partner with health, social service, and child development professionals to set and achieve goals that improve their health and well-being.

Maternal And Perinatal Health Home Health Care Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health +1 more

Special Child Health Services, Newborn Screening and Genetic Services NOFA

State of New Jersey Department of Health
State/Local Government
New Jersey
Up to US $2,600,000

New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH)

The New Jersey Department of Health leads the state’s response to public health challenges and works to improve health outcomes for all New Jersey residents. Through its three primary branches—Public Health Services, Health Systems, and Integrated Health—the Department collaborates across programs and partners to strengthen New Jersey’s health system. Guided by its mission to protect public health, promote healthy communities, and improve the quality of health care, the Department supports initiatives that advance prevention, system integration, and equitable access to health services statewide.

Special Child Health Services, Newborn Screening and Genetic Services Grant Program

Partial support to regional agencies providing pediatric specialty care for infants/children identified via newborn screening to ensure access to confirmatory testing, comprehensive treatment, counseling services and professional/patient/community education/information.

Children’s Health & Pediatrics Obstetrics & Neonatal Care

Connors, Helen L Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation Of Northwest Missouri
Private
Missouri
US $100 - US $500

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. 

Connors, Helen L Memorial Scholarship

This fund was established in memory of Jim and Helen Connors by their family to provide academic scholarships to graduating seniors attending public and private schools in St Joseph, MO or Mid-Buchanan High School, majoring in nursing, music, law enforcement or theatre. Jim had many occupations throughout his life including actor, weatherman for KQ2, wresting announcer, but most notably retiring from the St Joseph Police Department as Commander after 33 years. Helen was a CRNA for 40 years and a lifelong musician. She specialized in piano and voice but also played the trombone.

Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis and disbursed in August.

Music Nursing Theater +2 more

McKeen Fund Grant

McKeen Fund
Private
Florida, Massachusetts +1 more
Unspecified amount
The McKeen Fund Grant is dedicated to enhancing the lives of vulnerable populations, including seniors and disadvantaged children and families. This private fund supports medical, educational, and social service programs, prioritizing initiatives that cannot secure outside funding. The Fund emphasizes grants for capital projects and specific programs aligned with its mission, while also engaging in direct charitable activities. Organizations eligible must be 501(c)(3) public charities, primarily in Florida, Massachusetts, and New York.
Youth Services Family Services Senior Services +6 more

Local Public Health Overdose Fatality Review Teams 2027 RFA

State of New Jersey Department of Health
State/Local Government
Atlantic County, New Jersey, Bergen County, New Jersey +17 more
Up to US $1,500,000
The Local Public Health Overdose Fatality Review Teams Grant Program, administered by the New Jersey Department of Health, aims to enhance public health responses to overdose fatalities. This initiative will provide $75,000 to 20 local health departments to support their established review teams. These teams will analyze overdose cases, identify systemic gaps, and devise strategies to mitigate future overdoses, ultimately working towards reducing overdose-related deaths in their communities.
Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Drug Use Disorder

Traveling Office-Based Opioid Treatment (OBOT) Funding Opportunity

Idaho Department of Health and Welfare
State/Local Government
Idaho
Unspecified amount

The purpose of this program is to expand access to evidence-based treatment for OUD by supporting Traveling OBOT programs that deliver MOUD and related services in community-based, nontraditional settings. Funded programs will implement low-barrier, patient-centered care models that meet individuals where they are, particularly those in underserved and high-need communities, including people experiencing homelessness, justice-involved individuals, and residents of rural areas with limited access to treatment. This initiative seeks to improve timely access to care, increase retention in treatment, and reduce opioid-related morbidity and mortality in Idaho through flexible, community- based service delivery. Programs are also expected to integrate evidence-based interventions, behavioral health services, and linkages to social supports, while advancing health equity and addressing disparities in access to OUD treatment.

Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Drug Use Disorder

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.