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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

$9.00B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

32,000+ grants
$9.00B total
$6K median

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32,423 Results based on applied filters

Housing Initiatives Grant

Catherine Donnelly Foundation
Private
Canada
C $10,000 - C $50,000
The Housing Initiatives Grant, offered by the Catherine Donnelly Foundation, aims to combat homelessness and promote affordable housing solutions in Canada. This funding supports projects that prioritize the prevention of homelessness, advocating for a rights-based approach, and fostering collaborations among various sectors. With a focus on partnerships, the Foundation seeks initiatives that address systemic barriers and empower marginalized communities, ultimately working towards sustainable housing solutions and collective impact.
Homelessness Services Equitable & Affordable Housing Public Policy

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

HFPG: Community Organizing Grants

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut, Middlesex County, Connecticut +1 more
US $5,000 - US $40,000
The Hartford Foundation for Public Giving offers Community Organizing Grants aimed at nonprofits and community groups led by people of color. These grants support community organizing efforts that enhance civic participation and empower marginalized communities. Proposals may include building organizational capacity, increasing awareness of social justice issues, and developing infrastructure in the Greater Hartford area. Grants range from $5,000 to $60,000 and are available for projects lasting up to one year.
Civic Engagement & Education Real Estate & Housing Education +4 more

Rapid Response Grants

Alaska Conservation Foundation
Private
Alaska
Up to US $15,000
The Alaska Conservation Foundation's Rapid Response Grants support immediate conservation actions to tackle unforeseen environmental opportunities or threats. These grants aim to enhance environmental policies and protection efforts across Alaska, ensuring sustainable development and stronger regulations. By fostering conservation philanthropy and directing resources to key initiatives, ACF envisions a thriving, diverse, and well-protected Alaskan environment. The ongoing application process allows for swift responses to urgent conservation needs.
Environmental Conservation Environment Environmental Justice & Advocacy

City of Water Day Grants

Hudson River Foundation
Private
Bronx County, New York, Kings County, New York +6 more
US $1,000 - US $4,000
The City of Water Day Grants support organizations across New York and New Jersey in hosting free community events focused on waterfront engagement and climate resilience. With funding ranging from $1,000 to $4,000, organizations can collaborate with local artists and schools to promote awareness of climate change through interactive activities. This year's theme emphasizes the interconnectedness of NY and NJ communities, aiming to foster a sustainable and vibrant waterfront experience for all.
Climate Change Resilience & Equity Environmental Stewardship Environmental Education

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

Summer Programs Grants

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut, Middlesex County, Connecticut +2 more
Up to US $50,000
The Summer Programs Grants aim to enhance summer programming for Hartford children and individuals with disabilities in the region. This competitive grant encourages 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations to provide safe, enriching environments while supporting working families. The program prioritizes cultural competency and requires tracking of participant involvement, emphasizing the importance of career exposure through counselor-in-training opportunities. Grants will be awarded to those demonstrating a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
After School / Summer Educational Programs Summer Camps Children With Disabilities +1 more

Veterans Food Assistance Program

Disabled Veterans National Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Disabled Veterans National Foundation

The Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF) was established in 2007 to support veterans facing challenges that traditional systems could not fully address. From its earliest days, DVNF has been focused on closing critical gaps in care and providing resources that help veterans rebuild their lives with dignity and stability.

Guided by this commitment, DVNF developed its Health & Comfort programs, offering emergency financial assistance, housing transition support, food assistance, comfort kits, and wellness initiatives. These programs are designed to meet veterans where they are and to provide practical solutions that restore hope and stability. Today, DVNF continues to grow as a trusted national nonprofit. Every day, our team works with a clear purpose: to change lives for the men and women who have served our country.

Veterans Food Assistance Program

It is our goal to ensure that no veteran goes hungry by providing essential food assistance and household support, fostering stability and well-being in the lives of our veterans and their families.

The Veterans Food Assistance Program (VFAP) is designed to provide a one-time grant of essential food and household support to veterans and their families, ensuring no veteran goes hungry. With the rising cost of living, especially food prices due to inflation, this program offers a much-needed lifeline to those who have served our country. Once approved, the DVNF program team will handle the shopping for you.

The Veterans Food Assistance Program provides a one-time grant per household to support different family sizes, given the rising cost of food:

  • Married Veterans Grant Allowance
    • Married - No Children up to $250
    • Married - 1 Child up to $300
    • Married - 2 Children up to $450
    • Married - 3+ Children up to $500
  • Single Veterans Grant Allowance
    • Single - No Children up to $200
    • Single - 1 Child up to $300
    • Single - 2 Children up to $350
    • Single - 3+ Children up to $450
Military & Veterans Services Food Access & Hunger Food Security

ANCA-Assoc Vasculitis and Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis Fund

Healthwell Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $6,000
The ANCA-Assoc Vasculitis and Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis Fund, established by the HealthWell Foundation, aims to reduce financial barriers for underinsured patients suffering from this rare and serious condition. The fund assists with copays, premiums, and out-of-pocket expenses related to treatment, ensuring that affected individuals have access to necessary medications. With over $1.2 billion in grants awarded since 2004, the foundation has helped over 1.1 million patients access critical healthcare services.
Health Care Access & Delivery Rare Diseases Heart Disease

Visionary Grants

Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin
Private
Portage County, Wisconsin, Waushara County, Wisconsin
Up to US $15,000
The Visionary Grants program, managed by the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin, supports innovative nonprofit projects in Portage and Waushara counties. Grants of up to $15,000 are available for multi-year commitments, encouraging organizations to launch new initiatives or enhance existing services. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and community groups. This funding aims to embed improvements into the organizational budget, fostering a sustainable impact on the community.
Basic Human Needs Wellness & Healthy Living Environmental Stewardship +2 more

Washington County 4-H Livestock/Market Sale Scholarship

Community Foundation of Washington County Maryland
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

This Community Foundation was created by and for the people of Washington County MD, and exists to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens, now and for generations to come, by building community endowments, addressing needs through grant making and providing leadership on key community issues.

Washington County 4-H Livestock/Market Sale Scholarship

Established to support post-secondary scholarships to participants in Washington County 4-H Livestock and Market Sale programs.

Education - Higher Education Livestock & Ranching Agricultural Economics +1 more

Washington County 4-H Dairy Scholarship

Community Foundation of Washington County Maryland
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

This Community Foundation was created by and for the people of Washington County MD, and exists to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens, now and for generations to come, by building community endowments, addressing needs through grant making and providing leadership on key community issues.

Washington County 4-H Dairy Scholarship

Established to support post-secondary scholarships to participants in Washington County 4-H dairy programs.

Education - Higher Education Livestock & Ranching Agricultural Economics +1 more

David R. Woodling Memorial Scholarship

Albuquerque Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The David R. Woodling Memorial Scholarship, established by The Stocker Foundation in 2007, supports students pursuing certificates or degrees in metals technology, focusing on machine tool technology and welding. Open to legal residents of New Mexico, eligible applicants include high school seniors and nontraditional students. The scholarship aims to provide financial assistance for tuition, fees, books, and required materials, ensuring that recipients can achieve their educational and career goals in this vital field.
Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education Career / College Preparation +2 more

Green Infrastructure Grantmaking Program

Greater New Orleans Foundation
Private
Orleans Parish, Louisiana, St. Charles Parish, Louisiana +5 more
Up to US $60,000
The Green Infrastructure Grantmaking Program by the New Orleans Community Support Foundation aims to distribute $1.75 million to support community-led projects in Southeast Louisiana. This initiative focuses on enhancing environmental resilience in underserved areas, promoting awareness, and improving water management. The program targets the implementation of at least 12 flood mitigation projects, empowering local organizations and individuals to effectively manage environmental grants and improve understanding of critical ecological issues.
Green Infrastructure Environmental Education Environmental Stewardship

Manuel Lujan Excellence in Education Scholarship Fund

Albuquerque Community Foundation
Private
New Mexico
US $500
The Manuel Lujan Excellence in Education Scholarship Fund, established in honor of former U.S. Representative Manuel Lujan Jr., supports graduating seniors from 24 designated high schools in central New Mexico. Each selected student receives a $500 annual award for up to four years to attend a New Mexico four-year college or university. This initiative aims to alleviate college costs and encourage higher education among local youth.
Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education Career / College Preparation +2 more

Behavioral Health FY27 - System of Care Enhancement Program NOFO

Mississippi Department of Mental Health
State/Local Government
Mississippi
Unspecified amount

About Us

The governing board of the Mississippi Department of Mental Health is composed of nine members appointed by the Governor of Mississippi and confirmed by the State Senate. Members’ terms are staggered to ensure continuity of quality care and professional oversight of services. By statute, the nine-member board is composed of a physician, a psychiatrist, a clinical psychologist, a social worker with experience in the field of mental health, and one citizen representative from each of Mississippi’s five congressional districts (as existed in 1974).

Behavioral Health FY27 - System of Care Enhancement Program NOFO

The goal of the System of Care Enhancement grant is to improve behavioral health outcomes for children/youth with SED and their families. The three (3) core values of SOC are that services should be child-centered and family focused; community-based, and culturally competent. The Enhancement grant funds will focus on families, parents and caregivers being full participants in all aspects of the planning and delivery of services. Family-focused care provides parents/caregivers of children/youth with SED

the support and education needed to improve their child’s emotional or behavioral symptoms. This includes, but is not limited to the following:

  • Providing linkages and resources to other community agencies
  • Multi-family group counseling
  • Positive parenting support
  • Behavioral management planning
  • Conducting a Community Needs and Resources Assessment
  • Developing a parent resource center

The target population includes parents/caregivers of youth involved in the juvenile justice system, child protection services, special education, alternative school, system of care programs, wraparound facilitation, and youth at-risk of out-of-home placement.

Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Child Welfare Services Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases +2 more

James Knott Memorial Scholarship

Albuquerque Community Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $1,000
The James Knott Memorial Scholarship, established by the New Mexico Manufactured Housing Association, supports graduating high school seniors residing in manufactured homes. Awards of up to $1,000 are given annually to students with a minimum GPA of 3.0 who attend a nonprofit or public educational institution full-time. Applicants must provide proof of residency, a written statement of financial need, and a reference from a teacher or counselor. This scholarship aims to empower students to achieve their educational goals.
Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education Career / College Preparation +2 more

A.D. and Peggy Hewlett and Colonel David R. Inman Medical Scholarship

Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The A.D. and Peggy Hewlett and Colonel David R. Inman Medical Scholarship, established by Steve Hewlett, Pam Inman, and Faye Houston, honors their parents' commitment to education and healthcare. This scholarship supports students pursuing nursing, pharmacy, or physical therapy, prioritizing applicants from Hancock, Ohio, or Daviess County, Kentucky. Applicants must demonstrate academic potential and compassion through relevant experiences. The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee administers this fund to foster a more inclusive and thriving community.
Academic Scholarship Programs Education - Higher Education Pharmacology +2 more

JBF Do Good Grant

Joe Burrow Foundation
Private
East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana, Indiana +3 more
Up to US $10,000
The JBF Do Good Grant, established by the Joe Burrow Foundation, aims to support innovative projects that assist underprivileged children, particularly those facing mental health challenges and food insecurity. Eligible organizations include nonprofits and public charities, with proposals up to $10,000 considered. The foundation encourages creative solutions that foster lasting impacts within communities in Greater Cincinnati and Baton Rouge. By fostering these initiatives, the foundation continues Joe Burrow's commitment to community service and social responsibility.
Children’s Mental Health Food Access & Hunger Poverty Alleviation & Services

St. Ignace Area Community Foundation: CTE Technical Scholarship

St. Ignace Area Community Foundation
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount

St. Ignace Area Community Foundation: CTE Technical Scholarship

The St. Ignace Community Fund annually awards scholarships assisting students with higher education, technical training, vocational training or retraining based largely on acknowledgement of student responsibility, community service, and civic involvement. These Scholarships are made possible through the generosity of donors to the various accounts within the St. Ignace Area Community Fund. Some accounts specifically are awarded to recognize higher education in the areas of special education, vocational/technical careers, teaching, law enforcement, and health care.

Vocational & Trade Education Nursing Special Needs Education +2 more

AISES RISE Scholarship

American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES)
Association/Society
American Samoa, Canada +5 more
US $2,000
The AISES RISE Scholarship offers $2,000 annually to support Indigenous students pursuing careers in STEM, particularly in the casino gaming industry. This initiative, powered by Aristocrat Gaming, aims to empower Indigenous talent through exposure, resources, and programming. Eligible applicants must be full-time students and current AISES members, demonstrating a commitment to their education and community. The scholarship seeks to enhance diversity in STEM fields by providing critical financial support to deserving students.
STEM / STEAM Education Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Academic Scholarship Programs +2 more

Davis-Kozoll Scholarship

Albuquerque Community Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,000 - US $5,000
The Davis-Kozoll Scholarship, established in 2019 by the Sandia Foundation, supports students from northwest New Mexico pursuing higher education in science or human service disciplines. Scholarships range from $1,000 to $5,000 and can be renewed annually based on academic progress. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.0, demonstrate community ties, and may pursue various degrees or vocational certificates. Priority is given to students from specific local communities, enhancing educational opportunities in the region.
Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education Career / College Preparation +2 more

FJ Brotherton Charitable Trust Grant

FJ Brotherton Charitable Trust
Association/Society
Florida, Massachusetts +3 more
Unspecified amount
The FJ Brotherton Charitable Trust Grant aims to support charitable organizations, focusing on arts, education, and social services primarily in the northeastern United States. Established in 2024, the Trust continues the legacy of the Fred J. Brotherton Charitable Foundation. It emphasizes funding for programs that assist the needy or disabled, while adhering to strict eligibility criteria, including a requirement for tax-exempt status under I.R.C. Section 501(c)(3).
Art & Culture Education Human & Social Services +7 more

Behavioral Health Mini Grant

Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority
State/Local Government
Alaska
Up to US $3,000
The Behavioral Health Mini Grant, administered by the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority, offers financial support of up to $2,500 to help individuals with mental health needs improve their quality of life. This grant aims to provide essential equipment, supplies, and services for beneficiaries, including those with developmental disabilities and substance-related disorders. Applications are accepted monthly, with a deadline on the 15th, fostering early intervention and prevention efforts in the community.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Brain Injuries +2 more

William F. Mann Scholarship

Albuquerque Community Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $2,000
The William F. Mann Scholarship, established in 2018, supports Albuquerque High School students pursuing full-time college education. It aims to assist students in achieving their educational goals while encouraging community service and good citizenship. Scholarships of up to $2,000 are awarded annually, with recipients expected to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 for renewal eligibility. Preference is given to those with a strong community service background, fostering mentorship among peers for future success.
Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education Career / College Preparation +2 more

Alaska Airlines Corporate Giving (Nonprofit Fundraisers)

Alaska Airlines Foundation
Private
Alaska, California +3 more
Unspecified amount
Alaska Airlines Corporate Giving supports 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations through in-kind donations and sponsorships. Focused on youth success, career readiness, care and belonging, environmental sustainability, and community resiliency, the program aims to strengthen communities served by Alaska Airlines. Organizations are encouraged to submit requests at least six weeks prior to events. However, support is generally granted on a one-time basis, and certain groups, such as those that discriminate or engage in capital projects, are ineligible.
Environmental Conservation Economic Services & Development Youth Development & Leadership +2 more

Ecosystems Scholarship

Community Foundation of South Puget Sound
Private
King County, Washington, Thurston County, Washington +2 more
US $5,000
The Ecosystems Scholarship, established by Rollin Geppert, supports students pursuing degrees in natural resources and land use planning. The Community Foundation of South Puget Sound has provided over $29 million in grants since 1989, fostering education and community development. Eligible applicants must be enrolled as sophomores or higher, with a minimum GPA of 3.0, at select Washington universities. This initiative honors the legacy of education and aims to empower future leaders in environmental stewardship.
Natural Resources Education - High School Academic Scholarship Programs

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.