Upcoming Webinar
Instrumentl Fall Launch: Grant Work, Leveled Up.
Thu, Oct 29 or Wed, Nov 4 @ 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

32,423 Results based on applied filters

Dam Safety and Climate Resilience Local Assistance Program (CA)

California Department of Water Resources
State/Local Government
California
Unspecified amount

Dam Safety and Climate Resilience Local Assistance Program (CA)

The Dam Safety and Climate Resilience Local Assistance Program (DSCR) provides state funding for repairs, rehabilitation, enhancements, and other dam safety projects at existing state-jurisdictional dams and associated facilities that were in service prior to January 1, 2023. Established in 2023, the program has received a new allocation of $464 million in two rounds of funding through Proposition 4 (The Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness, and Clean Air Bond Act of 2024). As a result of this new funding, the program requires new guidelines and a revised solicitation process..

Program Details

DSCR projects should provide some or all of the following public benefits.

They are listed below in order of priority:

  • Protection of public safety.
  • Restoration of water storage.
  • Flood risk reduction.
  • Enhancement of water supply reliability.
  • Enhancement, protection, or restoration of habitat for fish and wildlife.
  • Protection of water quality.

DSCR projects eligible to receive funding under the program include the following:

  • Dam repairs to allow water storage to full capacity.
  • New spillway and spillway repair projects at existing dams.
  • Dam and reservoir seismic retrofit projects.
  • Enhancement of water supply and downstream flood risk reduction such as implementation of Forecast-Informed Reservoir Operations.
  • One-time projects to remove sediment resulting from wildfires or extraordinary storm events.
  • Improvements to appurtenances to address dam safety-related deficiencies identified by the department.

Water Resource Management

NMDP Barbara Buchbinder Nurse Research Program Grant

National Marrow Donor Program
Private
United States
US $25,000
The NMDP Barbara Buchbinder Nurse Research Program Grant supports pediatric BMT nurses conducting research to enhance transplant experiences and outcomes for children. With only 4% of federal funding allocated to childhood cancer, this program, honoring a dedicated nurse, aims to attract new talent to the field. Each selected Buchbinder Scholar receives a $25,000 award to pursue relevant investigations, emphasizing the importance of supportive care in pediatric allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplants.
Children’s Health & Pediatrics Hematological Systems Cell Biology +1 more

City of Bellingham Preservation and Production Housing and Shelter Grant (Shelter)

City of Bellingham
State/Local Government
Whatcom County, Washington
Unspecified amount
The City of Bellingham Preservation and Production Housing and Shelter Grant provides funding for the creation and preservation of rental housing, particularly for households earning under 60% of the area median income. With up to $3.5 million available, this program focuses on multifamily housing and transitional shelters, ensuring that vital housing resources are maintained and developed to meet community needs.
Equitable & Affordable Housing Supportive Housing & Shelters

Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship

New Hampshire Sea Grant
Association/Society
District of Columbia
Approximately US $93,900
The Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for graduate students interested in ocean and coastal policy. Funded by the National Sea Grant College Program, this one-year fellowship matches students with government hosts in Washington, D.C. The program is designed to enhance understanding of marine policy and resource management. Applications are due by February 19, 2025, with selection processes concluding by April 2, 2025. This program fosters professional growth and impactful engagement in marine policy.
Marine / Ocean Conservation Freshwater Conservation Coastal Conservation

REALTORS Housing Opportunities Fund Grant

Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina
Private
Berkeley County, South Carolina, Charleston County, South Carolina +1 more
Up to US $5,000
The REALTORS Housing Opportunities Fund Grant, initiated by the Charleston Trident Association of Realtors in 2003, aims to support affordable housing projects in Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties. With over $1 million invested, the grant prioritizes nonprofits focused on education, development, or repair of affordable housing. Interested organizations must register to apply, allowing two business days for processing. This competitive funding opportunity promotes community development and addresses housing needs.
Homeownership Equitable & Affordable Housing

T. Rowe Price Foundation Grants

T. Rowe Price Foundation
Corporate
Baltimore County, Maryland, Bronx County, New York +6 more
Unspecified amount
The T. Rowe Price Foundation, established in 1981, primarily supports nonprofit organizations in Baltimore, Colorado Springs, San Francisco, and New York. While most grants are by invitation, unsolicited proposals are also considered. The foundation emphasizes community engagement, collaboration, and unrestricted funding to enhance the operational capacity of nonprofits, enabling them to address critical social issues effectively. With over $194 million in grants awarded, it focuses on fostering strong leaders and equitable solutions in the communities it serves.
Art & Culture Basic Human Needs Academic Success & Enrichment +4 more

Indigo Oak Fund: Education Grant Program

Vance R and Colleen H Andrus Family Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Indigo Oak Fund's Education Grant Program supports educational initiatives in Colorado and the Bay Area, focusing on both traditional schools and alternative learning experiences. This program aims to empower individuals through education, fostering personal growth and lifelong learning. By funding resources for teachers and career advancement for adults, the Fund seeks to create equal opportunities, enhance community engagement, and contribute to a more equitable society.
Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Adult Education Academic Success & Enrichment +1 more

Navigator Emergency Department Diversion Models for Non-Urgent Mental Health Concerns (R01 Clinical Trial Required)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Unspecified amount
This grant opportunity from the US Department of Health and Human Services, specifically the National Institutes of Health, aims to examine the effectiveness of family navigation models that divert non-urgent mental health concerns from emergency departments. The initiative seeks to enhance mental health service engagement, provide necessary resources, and support families in overcoming barriers to help-seeking. Key deadlines for applications range from February 2025 to October 2027.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Children’s Mental Health Emergency Medical Care & Services

Climate Innovation Fund Grant Program

Alberta Ecotrust Foundation
Private
Canada
Up to C $100,000
The Climate Innovation Fund Grant Program, administered by the Alberta Ecotrust Foundation, supports innovative local projects aimed at mitigating climate change in Calgary and Edmonton. Focusing on technology demonstration, collective impact, and policy advancement, this program provides essential funding for scalable, low-emission initiatives. Organizations are invited to apply for funding across four key areas, fostering community-driven solutions to the climate emergency and contributing to long-term sustainability efforts.
Carbon / Greenhouse Gas Reduction

Navigator Emergency Department Diversion Models for Non-Urgent Mental Health Concerns (R34 Clinical Trial Required)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $450,000
This NOFO aims to enhance research on the effectiveness and implementation of family navigation models that divert non-urgent mental health concerns from emergency departments. It will focus on tools for triaging mental health acuity, engaging families with necessary services, and addressing barriers to help-seeking. Important deadlines for grant applications range from February 2025 to October 2027, with optional Letters of Intent encouraged thirty days prior to each due date.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Children’s Mental Health Emergency Medical Care & Services

Alabama Recycling Fund Grant

Alabama Department of Environmental Management
State/Local Government
Alabama
Unspecified amount
The Alabama Recycling Fund Grant, managed by the Alabama Department of Environmental Management, supports local governments and nonprofits in enhancing or initiating recycling programs. This initiative promotes environmental stewardship by funding projects such as recycling bins, infrastructure, and educational outreach. Recent collaborations, like the Albertville-Boaz Recycling Authority, showcase successful partnerships aimed at increasing recycling efforts and community awareness. Eligible applicants include local governments and nonprofit organizations, ensuring comprehensive participation in sustainable practices.
Recycling

New Seasons Market Community Grant Program

New Seasons Market
Corporate
Clackamas County, Oregon, Clark County, Washington +2 more
Unspecified amount
The New Seasons Market Community Grant Program supports organizations addressing food insecurity through racial equity initiatives. By focusing on food access, environmental justice, and neighborhood education, the program aims to empower communities to meet immediate food needs while promoting sustainable practices. Organizations are encouraged to highlight how their work addresses disparities and fosters equity. Additionally, applicants can reapply for future funding rounds if not selected, ensuring ongoing support for vital community efforts.
Food Access & Hunger Racial / Ethnic Justice & Rights Environmental Justice & Advocacy

Desert Tortoise Recovery Partnership

National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)
Private
Kern County, California, Riverside County, California +1 more
Up to US $1,000,000
The Desert Tortoise Recovery Partnership aims to restore and protect the Mojave desert tortoise populations in California's western Mojave Desert. Formed by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and various military and environmental agencies, this initiative seeks to address urgent conservation needs and enhance habitat through a funding opportunity of up to $1 million. The partnership exemplifies a collaborative effort to balance species recovery with military operations, ensuring both ecological and operational sustainability.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Herpetological Conservation Land / Habitat Conservation

Daisy Marquis Jones Foundation Grant

Daisy Marquis Jones Foundation
Private
Monroe County, New York, Yates County, New York
Unspecified amount
The Daisy Marquis Jones Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations that enhance the well-being of disadvantaged children and families in Yates and Monroe counties, NY. Focused on collaboration and measurable outcomes, the Foundation seeks programs that provide healthcare access, assist seniors, and promote economic security. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations serving these areas. The Foundation prioritizes projects with long-term commitments to specific neighborhoods, thus fostering community empowerment and sustainable impact.
Education - Preschool / Early Learning Health Care Access & Delivery Senior Services +4 more

Stem Cell Grants: Travel Award

Cornell University- Society for the Humanities
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $1,200
The Stem Cell Grants: Travel Award supports students, postdocs, and faculty attending scientific conferences and workshops related to stem cell research. Up to $1,200 is available for each application, with a maximum of two applications per PI lab each calendar year. Priority is given to those presenting at stem cell meetings and workshops. All applications must be submitted at least one week before travel to ensure funding consideration.
Bioengineering Synthetic Biology Cell Biology +4 more

EDUC 1.12: Funding Opportunity to Manage the CIRM Annual Trainee Network Conference

California Institute for Regenerative Medicine
Association/Society
California
Up to US $426,000
The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) is offering a funding opportunity through EDUC 1.12 to manage the Annual Trainee Network Conference. This initiative aims to support CIRM's Research Training programs by selecting a qualified applicant to develop and oversee the conference scheduled between May and August 2026. This effort aligns with CIRM's mission to promote equitable regenerative medicine advancements and enhance education and training across diverse communities.
Cell Biology Human Genome & Genetics Preventative Healthcare +3 more

Youth Program Grants

Oshkosh Area Community Foundation
Private
Winnebago County, Wisconsin
Up to US $3,000
The Oshkosh Area Community Foundation offers Youth Program Grants to support initiatives that enhance youth development in Winnebago County. These grants prioritize projects that promote environmental education, establish new services for youth, strengthen existing programs, and provide adaptive equipment for children with disabilities. Eligible organizations include public charities and government agencies, while individuals and private schools are ineligible. The foundation aims to create better opportunities for children through these funding efforts.
Summer Camps Children With Disabilities Youth Services +2 more

CLIN 2: Funding Opportunity for Clinical Trial Stage Projects

California Institute for Regenerative Medicine
Association/Society
California
Up to US $15,000,000
The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) offers funding opportunities for clinical trials focused on regenerative medicine therapies, including stem cell and genetic therapies. This initiative aims to accelerate the development of innovative treatments for unmet medical needs, providing up to $15 million for clinical studies. CIRM emphasizes partnership and resource support to ensure project success, addressing the critical stages of clinical trial development within a 48-month project period.
Bioengineering Synthetic Biology Cell Biology +3 more

AGA-Bern Schwartz Family Fund Research Scholar Award in Pancreatic Cancer (Fund B)

American Gastroenterological Association
Association/Society
North America
US $300,000
The AGA-Bern Schwartz Family Fund Research Scholar Award in Pancreatic Cancer provides $100,000 annually for three years to early-career faculty in digestive disease research. This award aims to support independent careers in pancreatic cancer research by protecting a significant portion of the recipient's time for research activities. Eligible applicants must hold an MD, PhD, or equivalent and work at a North American institution, with AGA membership required. Strong encouragement is given to underrepresented groups.
Pancreatic Cancer

AGA-Bern Schwartz Family Fund Research Scholar Award in Pancreatic Cancer (Fund A)

American Gastroenterological Association
Association/Society
North America
US $300,000
The AGA-Bern Schwartz Family Fund Research Scholar Award in Pancreatic Cancer provides $100,000 annually for three years to early-career faculty focused on independent research in pancreatic cancer. This award aims to protect at least 50% of the recipient's time for research activities. Eligible applicants must hold an MD or PhD and be classified as early-career. The award encourages physician-scientists and underrepresented groups in biomedical research to apply, supporting innovative research that can lead to significant advancements in understanding pancreatic cancer.
Pancreatic Cancer

Resilient and Connected Appalachians Grant Program

The Nature Conservancy
Private
Alabama, Connecticut +16 more
Up to US $100,000
The Resilient and Connected Appalachians Grant Program, offered by The Nature Conservancy, provides up to $100,000 for projects that acquire land and easements throughout the Appalachian region. This program emphasizes equitable conservation, aiming to support historically marginalized communities and enhance access to nature while addressing climate change impacts. Projects must demonstrate community engagement and align with the program's goals to protect vital habitats and foster resilience in the face of environmental challenges.
Environmental Conservation Environmental Stewardship Outdoor Equity +1 more

Gateway Regional Environment Fund Grant Program

St Louis Community Foundation
Private
Jefferson County, Missouri, Madison County, Illinois +4 more
Up to US $100,000
The Gateway Regional Environment Fund Grant Program, managed by the St. Louis Community Foundation, aims to support initiatives in the St. Louis metro area that reduce the carbon footprint. By funding projects that address greenhouse gas emissions, GREF plays a crucial role in combating climate change locally. This program encourages community engagement and innovation to create a sustainable future for the region.
Carbon / Greenhouse Gas Reduction

Kentucky Opioid Abatement Grants: Treatment and Recovery

Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission
State/Local Government
Kentucky
Up to US $1,000,000
The Kentucky Opioid Abatement Grants focus on addressing the opioid epidemic's impact on communities through prevention and recovery efforts. Established by the Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission, these grants prioritize funding for evidence-based programs that serve individuals with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) and related challenges. With an award ceiling of $1 million, the initiative seeks to enhance treatment accessibility and promote family togetherness, supportive housing, and employment support, ultimately aiming for sustainable solutions in Kentucky.
Drug Use Disorder

Siemens: Charitable or Product Donations

Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc.
Corporate
United States
Unspecified amount
Siemens Healthineers supports charitable donations that align with its focus areas, including diagnostic imaging and oncology. They prioritize well-rated organizations that allocate a significant portion of donations to clinical efforts rather than administrative costs. Events must ensure at least 65% of funds go to the intended cause. Local chapters of national nonprofits should coordinate with their national teams for requests, as Siemens typically does not entertain separate local requests.
Biomedical Imaging Patient Care & Services Cardiovascular Diseases & Systems +1 more

Siemens: Sponsorships

Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc.
Corporate
United States
Unspecified amount
Siemens Healthineers USA offers sponsorships to support healthcare initiatives across the U.S. They emphasize funding for healthcare organizations and related events, ensuring that requests comply with eligibility criteria. The company prioritizes diagnostic imaging, laboratory diagnostics, cardiology, and oncology. Applications must be submitted at least 45 days prior to the event, and funding is not available for sole sponsorships or certain excluded initiatives. For more information, visit Siemens Healthineers' official site.
Biomedical Imaging Patient Care & Services Cardiovascular Diseases & Systems +1 more

Music Therapy Grants

Music Movement
Association/Society
United States
US $1,500 - US $2,500
Music Movement offers grants for music therapy aimed at children and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental challenges. Grants typically range from $1,500 to $2,500, providing financial relief to families seeking therapeutic resources. Eligible applicants include legal guardians of children in the U.S. who select qualified therapists. The organization focuses on enhancing communication, social skills, and emotional well-being through music, benefiting diverse communities and promoting personal growth.
Autism Children With Disabilities Music Education

Increased Recycling of Empty Glass Beverage Containers Grant Program (CA)

California Department of Resources, Recycling, and Recovery (CalRecycle)
State/Local Government
California
US $250,000 - US $4,000,000
The Increased Recycling of Empty Glass Beverage Containers Grant Program in California aims to enhance glass recycling efforts by funding regional pilot programs. Eligible applicants, including restaurants and retail establishments, can receive between $500,000 and $2,000,000 annually to implement collection initiatives. With a total funding pool of $4,000,000 available each fiscal year, this program encourages sustainable practices and aims to improve recycling rates statewide.
Recycling

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.

Filter Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits

Browse Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits by Location

Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming American Samoa District of Columbia Guam Northern Mariana Islands Puerto Rico Virgin Islands Africa Haiti

Related Grant Funding Focus Areas

Browse Other Nonprofit Operations & Capacity Grants

Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits Corporate Grants for Nonprofits Foundation Grants for Nonprofits Grants for 501(c)(3) Grants for Capital Funding Grants for Computers for Nonprofits Grants for Grassroots Organizations Grants for Solar Panels for Nonprofits Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations Marketing Grants for Nonprofits Operating Grants for Nonprofits Private Grants for Nonprofits Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits Seed Grants for Nonprofits Small Grants for Nonprofits Technology Grants

Browse More Local Grants

Local Grants by City

Grants for 501(c)(3) in Lincoln, NE Seed Grants for Nonprofits in Stamford, CT Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in Rock Hill, SC Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Anchorage, AK Small Grants for Nonprofits in Oxnard, CA Technology Grants in Yuma, AZ Seed Grants for Nonprofits in Deltona, FL Grants for 501(c)(3) in Des Moines, IA Grants for Solar Panels for Nonprofits in Winston-Salem, NC Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits in Killeen, TX Grants for Solar Panels for Nonprofits in Tracy, CA Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in Idaho Falls, ID