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.

33,000+

Available grants

$9.00B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

33,000+ grants
$9.00B 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

32,545 Results based on applied filters

Judith Halama Ebert Scholarship

Ashland County Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Judith Halama Ebert Scholarship aims to support graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, pursuing Education, particularly in Special Education. Established by Judy Ebert, a passionate advocate for education, the scholarship reflects her commitment to assist students demonstrating leadership and community engagement. This initiative not only honors Judy's educational legacy but also fosters future educators who will positively impact the community.
Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation Education - High School +2 more

Big 33 Academic Scholarship Fund

The Foundation for Enhancing Communities
Private
United States
Up to US $2,000
The Big 33 Academic Scholarship Fund, managed by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, offers financial assistance to Pennsylvania high school seniors planning to pursue higher education. Eligible students must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 and demonstrate academic achievement, community service, and leadership. Since its inception in 1985, the fund has awarded over $3.9 million in scholarships, helping countless students achieve their academic goals and overcome obstacles.
Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education Academic Scholarship Programs +2 more

Erin Marie Masling Memorial Scholarship

Rochester Area Community Foundation
Private
United States
More than US $500

Erin Marie Masling Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship encourages students who have the potential and desire to pursue a post-secondary education despite the effects of an ongoing medical condition or illness.

Number and Size of Awards

Number of recipients and award amounts vary; minimum award $500. Award paid in one lump sum in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters.

Allowed Use of Award

Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.

Education - Higher Education Cystic Fibrosis Chronic Illnesses

BJA FY 2026 Tribal Justice Training and Technical Assistance Program

US Department of Justice: Bureau of Justice Assistance
Federal Government
United States
US $400,000 - US $1,070,000
The BJA FY 2026 Tribal Justice Training and Technical Assistance Program aims to enhance Tribal justice systems through specialized technical support. This funding opportunity addresses critical issues such as violent crime and substance-use related crime, including opioids. By assisting federally recognized Indian Tribes, the program promotes the development of sustainable legal and corrections infrastructure while fostering collaboration with federal, state, and local partners. Applications are due by October 28, 2026, at 8:59 p.m. ET.
Crime & Justice Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Native American Services +2 more

Retail Store Management Scholarship

NRF Foundation
Private
United States
US $10,000
The NRF Foundation Retail Management Scholarship, in partnership with CVS Health, is designed to inspire undergraduate students to pursue careers in retail leadership. Eligible candidates can receive a $10,000 scholarship and attend the NRF Foundation Student Program in NYC in January 2026. This program provides networking opportunities with top retail executives and recruiters, along with insights into career pathways in the retail industry, making it a valuable experience for aspiring leaders.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs Business Education +1 more

C. Edward and Edith Strobel Charitable Trust Grant

C. Edward and Edith Strobel Charitable Trust
Private
Alameda County, California, Contra Costa County, California +7 more
US $5,000 - US $10,000
The C. Edward and Edith Strobel Charitable Trust Grant aims to support conservation and health-related initiatives in the San Francisco Bay Area. Established in 1968, this foundation honors the legacy of its founders, Carolus Edward and Edith McCammon Strobel, who tragically lost their lives in an accident. The trust primarily funds medical research for children's diseases and heart and lung health, along with various environmental and animal welfare projects.
Environmental Conservation Children’s Health & Pediatrics Cardiovascular Diseases & Systems +1 more

Florida Department of Environmental Protection: Resilient Florida – Planning Grants

Florida Department of Environmental Protection
State/Local Government
Florida
Unspecified amount
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection offers the Resilient Florida – Planning Grants to support local governments and organizations in resilience planning efforts. These grants aim to enhance the assessment of vulnerabilities to critical assets, ensuring that coastal communities can recover more swiftly from natural disasters. Eligible applicants include counties, municipalities, and water management districts, which can also collaborate with the Florida Flood Hub for Applied Science and Innovation to address data gaps.
Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid Climate Change Resilience & Equity Environmental Policy

Crestlea Foundation Grant

Crestlea Foundation
Private
New Castle County, Delaware
Approximately US $15,000
The Crestlea Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations in Delaware and Southeastern Chester County, PA, focusing on social services, education, healthcare, and more. Applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations located in the specified areas. A meeting is required for first-time applicants or those requesting over $15,000. Organizations can reapply after one year if not funded, while grants are not provided for political or religious activities, special events, or scholarships.
Environmental Conservation Art & Culture Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets +6 more

EmpowerMENt Fund Grant

Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation
Private
Washtenaw County, Michigan
Up to US $15,000
The EmpowerMENt Fund Grant, offered by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, aims to uplift young Black males in Washtenaw County by promoting their educational success. This initiative focuses on a holistic approach, providing mentorship, vocational training, and college readiness support. By investing in collaborative efforts, the fund seeks to address the systemic inequities faced by this demographic, fostering positive outcomes and community contributions over a one-year period.
Academic Success & Enrichment Vocational & Trade Education Civic Leadership Development +2 more

Healthy Lives: Biomedical Research Grant Program

The New York Community Trust
Private
Bronx County, New York, Kings County, New York +6 more
Unspecified amount
The Healthy Lives: Biomedical Research Grant Program, funded by The New York Community Trust, aims to enhance health services for New Yorkers, focusing on equitable care for vulnerable populations. It supports early to mid-career researchers working on critical health issues like cancer and heart disease. The program seeks to empower nonprofits and academic institutions in metropolitan New York to innovate and develop their research initiatives, ensuring impactful community health improvements.
Cancer / Oncology Heart Disease Diseases & Conditions

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) - Economic Development Infrastructure Financing (EDIF) Program

Oklahoma Department of Commerce
State/Local Government
Oklahoma
Up to US $1,000,000

Oklahoma Department of Commerce

Our job is to bring jobs, investment, and economic prosperity to the state of Oklahoma. Through dynamic partnerships and innovative collaborations with companies, universities, not-for-profit organizations, and government leaders, we are building a business environment that supports business growth and shared community prosperity.

Community Development Block Grant Programs

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program enables rural Oklahoma communities to finance a variety of public infrastructure and economic improvements and helps promote job growth as a result of these improvements. CDBG funds are provided by the federal government (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) and managed by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce to help ensure Oklahoma’s most critical needs are addressed.

CDBG Economic Development Infrastructure Financing (EDIF)

Oklahoma’s program is designed to provide infrastructure financing to eligible units of local government for the benefit of new or expanding industries. Eligible units of local government sponsor applications for public infrastructure financing on behalf of private businesses that will create new jobs resulting from the improvements.

Economic Services & Development Rural Development Job Creation +1 more

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) - Capital Improvement Planning (CIP)

Oklahoma Department of Commerce
State/Local Government
Oklahoma
Unspecified amount

Oklahoma Department of Commerce

Our job is to bring jobs, investment, and economic prosperity to the state of Oklahoma. Through dynamic partnerships and innovative collaborations with companies, universities, not-for-profit organizations, and government leaders, we are building a business environment that supports business growth and shared community prosperity.

Community Development Block Grant Programs

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program enables rural Oklahoma communities to finance a variety of public infrastructure and economic improvements and helps promote job growth as a result of these improvements. CDBG funds are provided by the federal government (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) and managed by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce to help ensure Oklahoma’s most critical needs are addressed.

Capital Improvement Planning (CIP)

This grant opportunity provides funding for units of general local government (cities, towns, and counties) to undertake a comprehensive inventory of all governmentally owned assets. Based on this inventory a 5 year strategic capital improvement plan is developed and all assets placed on GIS mapping.

Economic Services & Development Public Infrastructure Job Creation +1 more

New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Trails+ Grant - Tier 1 (Local Projects) (NM)

New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division
State/Local Government
New Mexico
US $25,000 - US $99,999
The New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Trails+ Grant supports local projects that enhance community well-being and boost local economies through improved outdoor infrastructure. This funding opportunity ranges from $25,000 to $99,999 and encourages projects that promote equitable access to recreation. It requires a match of 1:1 for urban projects and 2:1 for rural or Tribal communities, aiming to connect people with nature while fostering stewardship of New Mexico's landscapes.
Ecotourism Outdoor Equity Trail Creation & Maintenance +1 more

Arts and Culture Program Support Grantmaking Program

Community Foundation of the Ozarks Inc.
Private
Barry County, Missouri, Barton County, Missouri +25 more
Up to US $90,000
The Arts and Culture Program Support Grant aims to enrich communities through arts funding for nonprofit organizations. Supported by local hotel/motel tax collections, this program offers up to $10,000 per agency, focusing on projects that advance arts advocacy, improve access, and enhance community engagement. Organizations in a 27-county service area are eligible, with emphasis on collaborative and outreach projects, particularly for youth and seniors. Grant recipients must adhere to non-discrimination policies.
Arts / Culture Access & Participation Youth Involvement in the Arts Tourism +2 more

Whiteis Fine Arts and Agriculture Scholarship Fund

Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation
Private
Texas
Up to US $20,000

Whiteis Fine Arts and Agriculture Scholarship Fund

Ms. Bonnie Whiteis opened the Whiteis Fine Arts and Agriculture Scholarship Fund in 2008 to benefit graduating seniors from Archer or Wichita County high schools. The Whiteis Scholarship can be used at any college or university in Texas in pursuit of an undergraduate degree in Fine Arts or Agriculture. Students must have a 2.5 GPA, financial need, and will be evaluated on participation in high school and community activities. This is a $5,000 per year scholarship, renewable for up to 4 years based on academic performance.

Education - Higher Education Fine Art Career / College Preparation +1 more

Rural Communities Opioid Response Program - Evaluation

Health Resources and Services Administration
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +7 more
Unspecified amount
The Rural Communities Opioid Response Program - Evaluation aims to assess the effectiveness of behavioral health strategies in rural settings. By developing evaluation tools and resources, this initiative seeks to empower local communities in their health initiatives, ensuring that future programs are informed by comprehensive evaluations. Funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration, the program highlights the importance of tailored approaches to address opioid-related challenges in rural areas.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Rural Development +1 more

Anthony C. Gaffke Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Anthony C. Gaffke Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports full-time undergraduate students in the College of Agriculture. Eligible candidates include sophomores, juniors, and seniors with a minimum 2.0 GPA, with preference given to graduates from Gallatin County high schools. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities in agriculture, thereby contributing to the economic development of Montana and preparing students for impactful careers.
Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation College Success / Persistence +1 more

Rogers and Meredith Scholarship (College)

Central Carolina Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

About

Central Carolina Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps generous people give back to the Midlands of South Carolina in ways that matter. Since 1984, we’ve been a trusted partner, helping individuals, families, and businesses make smart, meaningful contributions that support local nonprofits, scholarships, and community projects.

Rogers and Meredith Scholarship (College) ($4,000) 

This renewable scholarship is available to students who have been residents of Epworth Children’s Home, Thornwell Home for Children or students who’ve been in custody of the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice. 

Education - Higher Education Education - High School Academic Scholarship Programs +2 more

International Development & Education Award

Conquer Cancer Foundation
Corporate
Afghanistan, Albania +138 more
Unspecified amount
The International Development and Education Award (IDEA) supports early-career oncologists in low- and middle-income countries, enhancing their expertise through mentorship and participation in the ASCO Annual Meeting. Recipients benefit from long-term professional relationships and access to resources such as the Journal of Clinical Oncology. Additionally, the IDEA-PC program focuses on medical education in palliative care, fostering knowledge sharing and collaboration to improve cancer care in their home countries.
Cancer / Oncology Palliative Care Medical Education & Professional Training

New Jersey Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE)

New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development
State/Local Government
New Jersey
Approximately US $260,005

Department of Labor and Workforce Development

The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development is dedicated to protecting our workforce, strengthening our businesses, and promoting the dignity of work.

The Division of Workforce Development is responsible for New Jersey’s workforce services, including vocational rehabilitation services, veteran’s services, and more. The division oversees the One-Stop Career Centers throughout the state, which offer a variety of programs and services to help employers meet their need to secure talented workers.

New Jersey Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE): Implementation & System Advancement (Phase II)

Grant Overview

Grant funds will be awarded to successful applicants who were previously awarded NJCIE Pilot Program grant funds from the NJCIE Pilot Program launched in 2024. Building on the success of the initial NJCIE Pilot launched in 2024, this next phase focuses on advancing participant outcomes and strengthening employer partnerships through more structured, outcome-driven service delivery models. This Phase II opportunity supports community rehabilitation providers in refining and scaling strategies that connect career pathway development, industry-recognized credential attainment, and competitive integrated employment. The program places an increased emphasis on measurable outcomes, including retention, wage progression, and long-term employment stability, while continuing to support the transition toward fully integrated employment opportunities statewide.

The purpose of the NJCIE program is to provide an opportunity for community rehabilitation providers to strengthen organizational capacity and pilot innovative employment and training services for people with disabilities that are intended to lead to competitive integrated employment. 

Disability Care & Services Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Employment Services

CNL Charitable Foundation Grants

Cnl Charitable Foundation Inc
Private
Brevard County, Florida, Citrus County, Florida +11 more
Unspecified amount
The CNL Charitable Foundation Grants, initiated by CNL Financial Group founder Jim Seneff, aim to enhance community well-being in Central Florida. These grants support 501(c)(3) charities and government institutions, focusing on education, leadership and entrepreneurship, arts and culture, and homelessness and poverty. With a commitment to community transformation, CNL prioritizes organizations that foster broad funding and engage CNL associates, reflecting a dedication to sustainable and impactful philanthropic efforts.
Art & Culture Education Homelessness Services +3 more

Comparison of PFAS Contributions to Agricultural Systems RFP

Water Research Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $400,000

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5413 - Comparison of PFAS Contributions to Agricultural Systems

Grant Information

  • Report per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) concentrations from a variety of agricultural inputs, including animal manures, fertilizers, pesticides, composts, soil amendments, seed coatings, and biosolids-based products.
  • Compare the impact of the various agricultural inputs on PFAS concentration in the soil profile over varying timeframes.
  • Evaluate the fate and transport of different inputs to PFAS contributions in agricultural systems at field-scale.
  • Determine the relative contributions from biosolids-based products and other inputs to help develop and prioritize risk management strategies.
Sustainable Agriculture & Agroecology Farms & Farming Soil Science +1 more

Keystone Grant Program

Elmina B. Sewall Foundation
Private
Maine
US $10,000 - US $100,000
The Keystone Grant Program, funded by the Elmina B. Sewall Foundation, aims to empower grassroots and community-led initiatives focused on environmental and racial justice in Maine. With available funding of up to $1.5 million, the program supports organizations demonstrating a commitment to advocacy and civic engagement. Applicants must be eligible to receive tax-deductible donations and can include diverse groups, particularly those led by marginalized communities, to foster a sustainable and equitable future.
Environmental Justice & Advocacy Racial / Ethnic Justice & Rights Civic Engagement & Education

Summer Career and Technical Education Grant

Texas Education Agency
State/Local Government
Texas
Up to US $50,000
The Summer Career and Technical Education Grant, overseen by the Texas Education Agency, aims to enhance Career and Technical Education (CTE) and Work-Based Learning (WBL) opportunities for students. This funding supports districts in offering greater access to approved CTE courses and summer work experiences, addressing barriers such as transportation and scheduling. The initiative aligns with TEA's strategic plan to prepare students for success in college, careers, and military service.
Educational Access & Equity Vocational & Trade Education Career / College Preparation +1 more

ABPN Dorthea Juul, PhD, Education Research Award

American Board Of Psychiatry and Neurology, Inc.
Private
United States
Up to US $100,000
The ABPN Dorthea Juul, PhD, Education Research Award offers up to $100,000 for research projects aligned with the ABPN's mission of enhancing lifelong learning and certification standards for psychiatrists and neurologists. Two awards each in psychiatry and neurology are available annually, with projects lasting up to two years. Eligible applicants must hold faculty appointments or have confirmed offers, comply with conflict of interest policies, and, if MDs or DOs, maintain ABPN certification and licensure.
Neuroscience Neurological Diseases & Disorders Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases +1 more

Alkermes Pathways Research Awards

Alkermes
Corporate
United States
Up to US $100,000
The Alkermes Pathways Research Awards program aims to foster research in neuroscience, specifically targeting schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. With grants up to $100,000, it supports early-career investigators exploring critical areas, including sleep and circadian disturbances related to these conditions. This initiative addresses the urgent need for innovative solutions in mental health research, empowering the next generation of scientists to make impactful contributions in understanding and treating these complex disorders.
Schizophrenia Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Sleep

STOP Statewide Training and Technical Assistance: Domestic Violence, Stalking and Dating Violence

Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency
State/Local Government
Pennsylvania
Up to US $150,000
The STOP Statewide Training and Technical Assistance grant aims to enhance knowledge of domestic violence, stalking, and dating violence in Pennsylvania. Funded by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency, it supports non-profit and governmental organizations to develop statewide training programs for victim advocates, law enforcement, and prosecutors. The initiative includes the implementation of the Maryland Model of Lethality Assessment Program and requires quarterly reporting through Egrants.
Crime & Justice Domestic Violence Sexual Assault / Abuse +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.