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Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits

Get unrestricted grants for nonprofits providing flexible funding to meet pressing organizational or program needs.

33,000+

Available grants

$9.00B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

33,000+ grants
$9.00B total
$6K median

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32,545 Results based on applied filters

Combat Cancer Technical Assistance Provider Grant

Iowa Health and Human Services
State/Local Government
Iowa
Up to US $6,000,000

Purpose

The purpose of this Request for Proposal (RFP) # COMPADM26001 is to solicit applications that will enable the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (referred to as Agency) to select the most qualified applicant to provide Rural Iowa cancer service providers with expertise, assessment and evaluation, and technical assistance on evidence-based strategies for designing, implementing, and sustaining cancer-focused Hub and Spoke models for achieving success in the Combat Cancer Projects of Iowa's Rural Health Transformation Grant. Activities in the Combat Cancer initiative of the Healthy Hometowns project include the development of hub and spoke models for cancer care, including the development of rural provider strategic partnerships. This includes developing and implementing arrangements that include exchanging best practices and coordination of care (which includes but is not limited to remote care services), expanding access to specialty services in a financially sustainable manner, streamlining or centralizing functions to create cost savings, improving the financial viability of rural providers, preserving independence of rural providers, keeping care local in rural communities when possible and appropriate, and developing models of sustainability for rural cancer providers. Other efforts include the coordination of patient navigation and survivorship services and the oversight of fidelity to evidence-based cancer screening, treatment, and care coordination practices. The Contractor will also support long-term sustainability planning, including workforce development, tele-oncology integration, and alignment with Commission on Cancer (CoC) standards. This work implements a portion of the Combat Cancer: Prevent and Treat initiative of the Iowa Healthy Hometowns Project, funded through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ Rural Health Transformation Program, opportunity #: CMS-RHT-26-001.

Preventative Healthcare Cancer / Oncology Rural Health Care +1 more

Dr. Gary King Sharp Memorial Scholarship

Central Kentucky Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Dr. Gary King Sharp Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Central Kentucky Community Foundation, aims to support students with a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher. Priority is given to those connected with Hospice services or in the foster care system, and to first-generation college students. This scholarship serves as a vital resource to empower students in their educational pursuits and enhance community life.
Education - Higher Education Hospice / End of Life Care Child Foster Care & Adoption Services +1 more

Local Jobs Fund Grant

Community Foundation of Central Illinois
Private
Bureau County, Illinois, De Witt County, Illinois +15 more
Unspecified amount
The Local Jobs Fund Grant, provided by the Community Foundation of Central Illinois, aims to break the cycle of poverty by equipping individuals with skills to earn above minimum wage. This grant is open to tax-exempt organizations and local government units, supporting impactful programs within a 50-mile radius of Peoria, IL. Eligible projects must comply with anti-discrimination laws and demonstrate measurable outcomes, fostering community development and collaboration.
Poverty Alleviation & Services Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Vocational & Trade Education +1 more

Charlotte Yeoman Martin Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Charlotte Yeoman Martin Scholarship at Montana State University supports American Indian undergraduate students from Montana high schools who demonstrate financial need and have overcome personal adversity. Preference is given to first-generation college students. This scholarship aims to enhance access to higher education for those facing economic challenges and may be renewed for up to four years, helping students achieve their academic goals and contribute positively to society.
Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation College Success / Persistence +1 more

Career Cluster Partnership Program Grant

South Carolina Department of Education
State/Local Government
South Carolina
More than US $150,000

2026-27 Career Cluster Partnership Program

Description

The South Carolina General Assembly has provided funds to the South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) through a legislative proviso (H. 5126 General Appropriations Bill, Proviso 1A.27) for one year to award grants on a competitive basis to private-sector statewide trade associations that provide nationally certified programs in career and technical education representing the automotive, construction, engineering, healthcare, mechanical contracting/construction, and hospitality and tourism career clusters. The purpose of this program is to support instructor/student training and student testing in industry clusters to increase the state’s skilled workforce. The SCDE administers the program through its Office of Career Readiness (OCR).

Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Vocational & Trade Education Career / College Preparation

Chippewa, Luce and Mackinac Conservation District Young Leaders Scholarship

E U P Community Foundation Alliance Inc
Private
Chippewa County, Michigan, Luce County, Michigan +1 more
Unspecified amount
The Chippewa, Luce and Mackinac Conservation District Young Leaders Scholarship, established by the Chippewa County Community Foundation, aims to support students pursuing education in agriculture or natural resources. Eligible students include high school graduates or current post-secondary students from Chippewa, Luce, or Mackinac counties, with a minimum GPA of 2.8. This initiative fosters leadership and commitment to community involvement, enhancing the future of natural resource stewardship in the region.
Education - Higher Education Agriculture Academic Scholarship Programs +1 more

Conservation Teacher of the Year Grant

Georgia Department of Natural Resources
State/Local Government
Georgia (US state)
US $1,000

Georgia Department of Natural Resources

The Department of Natural Resources has statewide responsibilities for the management and conservation of Georgia’s natural and cultural resources. Most of this work is conducted by DNR’s five operating divisions that have statutory authority over the management and protection of Georgia’s natural and cultural resources. The Divisions also provide technical assistance, education and outreach and other programming relevant to their individual missions.

Conservation Teacher of the Year Grant

Through education, research and management, DNR's Wildlife Conservation Section safeguards Georgia's native diversity of wild animals, plants and habitats while also encouraging outdoor enjoyment. We are pleased to offer a $1,000 grant to an elementary school teacher (K–5, including science specialists) who demonstrates exceptional energy and innovation in teaching life sciences.

Prospective teachers must use Georgia’s native animals, plants and habitats as the context for covering Georgia Standards of Excellence. Although this grant emphasizes life science, cross-curricular teaching is highly encouraged. Preference will be given to teachers who demonstrate creativity in project design and take learning outside, as well as projects that could not be funded otherwise.

Environmental Conservation Natural Resources Teacher Development & Training

Pederson Nursing Scholarship

Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance Inc (MOCA)
Private
Hennepin County, Minnesota
US $1,000
The Pederson Nursing Scholarship, awarded by the Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance, provides $1,000 to support an oncology nurse at the University of Minnesota Fairview Hospital. This scholarship aims to enhance the education of nurses caring for women with ovarian cancer, improving their ability to provide quality care. Established in memory of Janet Pederson, who succumbed to ovarian cancer in 2015, this scholarship honors her legacy and commitment to healthcare.
Cancer / Oncology Gynecological Cancers Medical Education & Professional Training

HEAL Initiative: Integrative Management of chronic Pain and OUD for Whole Recovery (IMPOWR) - Building Engagement, Assistance, Capacity, Outreach, and Networks (BEACON) Center

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Unspecified amount
The HEAL Initiative aims to address the significant overlap between chronic pain (CP) and opioid use disorder (OUD), with 40-75% of individuals affected by both. The IMPOWR project focuses on testing innovative interventions and implementation strategies to integrate care for CP and OUD across various health systems. The BEACON Center will enhance network coordination, build capacity, and develop resources to address barriers in service delivery, ultimately improving sustainability and scalability of evidence-based practices.
Epidemiology & Public Health Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Health Care Access & Delivery +2 more

Hutsell, Alan Scholarship Fund

Noble County Community Foundation
Private
United States
US $500

Hutsell, Alan Scholarship Fund

For a high school senior from Central Noble, East Noble, Wawasee, West Noble or homeschool (homeschooled student must live in Noble County) who will be pursuing advanced education in emergency services involving fire, police, criminal justice and/or EMS.

Awards Per Year:

  • 1 scholarship

Applicant High School:

  • Central Noble, East Noble, Homeschooled, Wawasee, West Noble

Colleges:

  • Any accredited college or university

Areas of Study:

  • Criminal Justice, Emergency Medical Services, Emergency Services, Emergency services involving fire, police, criminal justice and/or EMS.

Education - Higher Education Emergency Medical Care & Services Criminal Justice System Reform +1 more

Clay Minerals Society Marilyn and Sturges W. Bailey Distinguished Member Award

Clay Minerals Society
Private
Ireland
US $2,000
The Clay Minerals Society Marilyn and Sturges W. Bailey Distinguished Member Award honors outstanding contributions to clay mineralogy through original research. This prestigious recognition is awarded solely based on scientific merit, without consideration for teaching or administrative service. The award includes a $2000 honorarium and waived registration for the Annual Conference, where the recipient will present a plenary lecture. Nominees may be renominated after three years, ensuring a fair evaluation process.
Mineralogy Geology Soil Science +2 more

RADM (ret.) Jeffrey A. & Linda J. Cook Scholarship

United Negro College Fund Inc
Private
United States
Up to US $4,250

Our Impact

UNCF was founded in 1944 to help more African American students attend and graduate from college.

Since then, we've helped to more than double the number of minorities attending college.

For Students

UNCF is more than just scholarships. We’re the nation’s leading minority education organization and our goal is to help you get to and through college.

Our support takes many different forms. From merit scholarships to financial assistance, on-campus assistance to professional development, emergency financial aid to community support, UNCF is committed to getting more students like you to and through college.

2026-2027 The RADM (ret.) Jeffrey A. & Linda J. Cook Scholarship

The RADM (ret.) Jeffrey A. & Linda J. Cook Scholarship is a need-based, recurring scholarship for active-duty, retired U.S. military veterans, or their dependents who are enrolled full time and pursuing undergraduate STEM degrees at an accredited HBCU. Recipients will receive a renewable award of up to $4,250 to support them in obtaining their undergraduate degree.

This scholarship is in honor of CPO Arthur A. Cook and Capt. Delbert E. Colwell, the fathers of the Grantors who served honorably during WWII.

Education - Higher Education Military & Veterans Services Educational Access & Equity +2 more

Women Giving Together Grants

Community Foundation of White County (CFWC)
Association/Society
White County, Indiana
Unspecified amount

About Us

Community Foundation of White County

Your community foundation is a philanthropic, nonprofit 501c3 organization that partners with visionary donors who believe that philanthropy has power to positively transform our White County community … forever.

To strengthen and transform our White County community by fostering charitable giving, philanthropic aspirations, and leadership.

Grants Available

Women Giving Together Grants

Grant are available to non-profit organizations serving White County women and children. This year's cycle will have an added focus on early childcare initiatives.

Women & Girl Services Child Welfare Services Art & Culture +5 more

Helen Greathouse Charitable Trust Grant

Helen Greathouse Charitable Trust
Private
Midland County, Texas
US $10,000 - US $30,000
The Helen Greathouse Charitable Trust, founded by Helen Greathouse in 1997, focuses on supporting charities that assist children and individuals facing physical and mental challenges in Midland County, Texas. The trust awards grants exclusively for religious, charitable, scientific, literary, or educational purposes. With an average grant size ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 and approximately 60 grants given annually, the trust has a significant impact on the local community, continuing Helen's legacy of generosity.
Disability Care & Services Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Children’s Mental Health

Clay Minerals Society: Student Travel Award

Clay Minerals Society
Private
Ireland
Up to US $1,500
The Clay Minerals Society offers a Student Travel Award to support students attending its annual meeting. This award provides partial funding for intracontinental and intercontinental travel, along with coverage for meeting registration, field trips, and lodging. Applications are judged competitively, with no restrictions on nationality or gender. Students may apply for both the travel award and research grant in one year, but can receive a maximum of two awards each.
Geology Mineralogy Soil Science +2 more

The Paul Wiseman Conservation Education Grant

The Keta Legacy Foundation
Private
Canada, Clallam County, Washington +11 more
US $15,000
The Paul Wiseman Conservation Education Grant, offered by the Keta Legacy Foundation, supports conservation-focused non-profit organizations in the Salish Sea region. With a funding limit of $15,000, this grant encourages impactful educational projects and restoration initiatives that promote environmental awareness. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and community agencies. The foundation aims to enhance conservation efforts and foster community engagement in preserving the region's unique ecosystems.
Environmental Conservation Environmental Education Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration

Proposition 68 Fish and Wildlife Improvement Grant Opportunities – Rivers and Streams Grants

California Department of Fish and Wildlife
State/Local Government
California
Up to US $5,000,000
The Proposition 68 Fish and Wildlife Improvement Grant Opportunities provide funding to enhance community resilience against climate change through projects aimed at improving fisheries and wildlife habitats, agricultural viability, and recreational opportunities. Administered by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, these grants specifically support the restoration of rivers and streams, particularly within the Klamath-Trinity Watershed, ensuring sustainable environmental practices and economic benefits for local communities.
Fish Conservation Wildlife Rehabilitation & Sanctuaries Wildlife Health +1 more

Robert W. Woodruff Foundation: Human Services Grant

Robert W Woodruff Foundation Inc
Private
Butts County, Georgia, Cherokee County, Georgia +11 more
Unspecified amount
The Robert W. Woodruff Foundation focuses on enhancing the quality of life in metro Atlanta and Georgia through impactful grants in various sectors, including human services. The foundation supports initiatives aimed at improving safety net services and youth development, along with limited disaster relief efforts. Grant requests are accepted year-round, with specific deadlines for consideration at board meetings. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) charities operating in Georgia, with strong leadership and financial sustainability.
Youth Services Academic Success & Enrichment Child Welfare Services +3 more

Women's Endowment Fund Grant

Akron Community Foundation
Private
Summit County, Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Women's Endowment Fund Grant, initiated in 1993, aims to uplift women and girls in Summit County through significant financial support and empowerment programs. With a fund exceeding $5.2 million, it has distributed nearly $2.5 million in grants, focusing on economic empowerment, health and wellness, and safety from violence. The fund encourages local organizations to apply, emphasizing the advancement of women as philanthropists and community leaders.
Women & Girl Services Women's Health Domestic Violence +1 more

Little Rapids Corporation Egan Family Foundation Grant

Little Rapids Corporation Egan Family Foundation Inc
Private
Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Little Rapids Corporation Egan Family Foundation Grant, established in 1986, supports charitable initiatives in communities where the company operates. The foundation emphasizes philanthropy in education, health and human services, youth development, and the arts. It seeks to fund projects that benefit many individuals over extended periods, with a preference for causes located in Northeast Wisconsin. This commitment reflects the family-owned structure's dedication to community enhancement and long-lasting positive impact.
Educational Access & Equity Basic Human Needs Health Care Access & Delivery +2 more

Clifford and Rubye Angleton Scholarship Fund

Central Kansas Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Clifford and Rubye Angleton Scholarship Fund, managed by the Central Kansas Community Foundation, supports graduating high school seniors and college students from Butler County, Kansas, pursuing higher education. Scholarships are based on available funds and applicants' merit. Recipients may renew their scholarships for up to three years with satisfactory academic progress. This initiative emphasizes the importance of rural philanthropy and aims to empower local students to achieve their educational goals.
Education - Higher Education Agriculture Vocational & Trade Education +3 more

Arts Education School Partnership Programs

William Penn Foundation
Private
Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The William Penn Foundation's Arts Education School Partnership Programs aim to enhance student success in Philadelphia by increasing access to diverse, hands-on arts education led by skilled teaching artists. With a focus on youth engagement and creativity, these programs are designed for children aged 5-18 and strive to create safe spaces for self-expression and personal development. This initiative addresses the disparities in arts education access for low-income families, promoting social-emotional skills and critical thinking through innovative learning experiences.
Art Education Education - K through 12 Youth Development & Leadership +2 more

Harlan and Linda Patterson Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Gallatin County, Montana
Unspecified amount
The Harlan and Linda Patterson Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports students pursuing a degree in Accounting from the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. This scholarship is designed to assist juniors and seniors who demonstrate financial need, promoting academic excellence in the fields of accounting and business. The award amount varies, providing essential financial support to eligible candidates committed to their educational journey.
Education - Higher Education Academic Success & Enrichment Academic Scholarship Programs +2 more

Heiser Fund for Leprosy Research Grant

The New York Community Trust
Private
United States
US $87,500 - US $250,000
The Heiser Program for Research in Leprosy, established by Dr. Victor G. Heiser, focuses on innovative biomedical research to combat leprosy. Since 1975, it has funded over 200 grants totaling more than $20 million, supporting early-career researchers and significant projects. The program aims to enhance diagnostic tools, improve treatments, and implement effective surveillance strategies. With a dedicated Scientific Advisory Committee, it ensures rigorous proposal reviews and fosters collaboration among grantees, ultimately advancing leprosy elimination efforts.
Pharmacology Eye Diseases & Disorders Respiratory Diseases & Systems +1 more

Colin and Sally Rowell Memorial Scholarship Fund

Central Kansas Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Colin and Sally Rowell Memorial Scholarship Fund, managed by the Central Kansas Community Foundation, offers financial assistance to graduating seniors from Butler County, KS high schools pursuing higher education or vocational training. This scholarship aims to support students with a demonstrated interest in education or agriculture, emphasizing financial need and potential for success in college. It reflects the foundation's mission to strengthen communities through charitable giving, promoting rural philanthropy in the central Kansas region.
Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education Education - High School +3 more

Charter School Facilities Credit Enhancement Grant Program (California, 2026)

California State Treasurer's Office
State/Local Government
California
Unspecified amount
The Charter School Facilities Credit Enhancement Grant Program in California aims to lower financing costs for charter schools by providing grants for debt service reserve accounts on bond transactions. This federally-funded initiative helps reduce borrowing costs, allowing schools to access funds for facility acquisition, renovation, or construction. With a maximum award limit of $2,000,000 per financing, this program is designed to support the financial stability of charter schools across the state.
Education - K through 12 Education - Middle School Education - High School +1 more

Achille & Irene Despres, William & Andre Scholarship

Grand Rapids Community Foundation
Private
Michigan
US $2,000 - US $5,000
The Achille & Irene Despres, William & Andre Scholarship, offered by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, supports high school seniors of Mexican heritage from Kent or Ottawa counties. With a minimum GPA of 2.75, recipients can pursue higher education in Michigan. The scholarship aims to eliminate barriers to success, providing financial assistance for tuition, books, and living expenses, thereby fostering academic ambition and community growth in West Michigan.
Education - Higher Education College Success / Persistence Educational Access & Equity +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 $3.34B available. Instrumentl connects nonprofits to tailored funding options, offering tools for tracking deadlines, customized searches, and insights to support organizational flexibility and growth.

Grant Insights : Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Quite common — grants in this category are more prevalent than in others.

8,000+ Unrestricted grants for nonprofits grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

3,000+ Unrestricted grants for nonprofits over $25K in average grant size

3,000+ Unrestricted grants for nonprofits over $50K in average grant size

1,000+ Unrestricted grants for nonprofits supporting general operating expenses

7,000+ Unrestricted grants for nonprofits supporting programs / projects

1,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Health Care Access & Delivery

300+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Social Justice / Human Rights

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Unrestricted grants for Nonprofits?

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
29.7%
Q2
24.7%
Q3
23.5%
Q4
22.1%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits?

Grants are most commonly $32,500.

$0 $0 Min.
$32,500 $32.5 K Median
$633,837 $633.8 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 29.7% 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 $32,500, while the average grant awarded is $633,837. 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.