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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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32,629 Results based on applied filters

Community Grants- Capital and Equipment Grants

JCCF Inc.
Corporate
Jackson County, West Virginia
US $1,000 - US $10,000
The Community Foundation of Jackson County offers Community Grants to support projects that enhance the quality of life for residents in Jackson County, WV. With a focus on capital and equipment projects, these grants assist non-profit organizations in achieving significant community impact through various sectors, including health, education, and economic development. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) and serve the local community, ensuring that funds are utilized effectively.
Art & Culture Education Health & Medicine +6 more

Disaster Grants Program

Legal Services Corporation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Disaster Grants Program by LSC provides vital funding to organizations aiding survivors of government-declared emergencies. It empowers legal aid groups to deliver essential services to low-income disaster survivors, ensuring access to legal assistance during crises. The program also educates communities on disaster legal services and prepares them for future emergencies, enhancing resilience and response capabilities. By supporting various grant types, the initiative addresses immediate needs and fosters long-term recovery strategies.
Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid Legal Services Supportive Housing & Shelters

County Environmental Health Act Grants (CEHA)

State of New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection
State/Local Government
New Jersey
Unspecified amount
The County Environmental Health Act Grants (CEHA) provide funding to certified local health agencies in New Jersey to enhance environmental health services. Administered by the State of New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, these grants support essential health assessments and improvement plans. Agencies are required to match state funds and attend an informational meeting to apply. This initiative promotes sustainable community development and environmental justice across the state, ensuring public health is prioritized.
Environmental Conservation Environmental Health Environmental Stewardship

Maisin Scholarship

10000 DEGREES
Private
San Francisco County, California
Up to US $12,000
The Maisin Scholarship aims to promote educational equity by supporting low-income students in the San Francisco Unified School District. Each year, the program awards up to $3,000 annually to 75 high school seniors, enabling them to pursue higher education. Established in honor of Alexander Maisin, a successful immigrant, the scholarship not only provides financial assistance but also offers workshops and resources to help students navigate their educational journey and achieve their goals.
Career / College Preparation Educational Access & Equity Student Retention & Drop-Out Prevention

Samuel "Eric" Storm Memorial Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation For Mississippi
Private
United States
US $2,500
The Samuel "Eric" Storm Memorial Scholarship Fund offers $2,500 to students pursuing advanced degrees in Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, or Speech Therapy. Established in honor of Eric Storm, a dedicated physical therapist, the fund aims to support students in accredited programs. Eric's legacy includes his commitment to mentorship and community service, reflecting his belief in health care as a calling. This scholarship honors his impact on many lives and encourages future health professionals to follow in his footsteps.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs Physical Therapy +2 more

Sonoma County Resilience Fund

Community Foundation Sonoma County
Private
Sonoma County, California
Unspecified amount
The Sonoma County Resilience Fund aims to support long-term recovery for residents affected by disasters like wildfires and floods. Established to provide resources beyond immediate relief, this fund prioritizes community resilience against future challenges, including climate change. Through proactive engagement and partnerships, the fund has allocated over $19 million since 2017, focusing on mental health, housing solutions, and preparedness initiatives, ensuring sustainable impact for decades to come.
Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid Disaster Preparedness Equitable & Affordable Housing

Marion Kellum Performing Arts Scholarship

Crown Point Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Marion Kellum Performing Arts Scholarship, administered by the Crown Point Community Foundation, aims to support graduating high school seniors pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts or related degrees. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and documented involvement in at least five theatre productions. This non-renewable scholarship provides essential financial assistance to nurture talent in the performing arts, enhancing the cultural landscape of South Lake County.
Education - Higher Education Art Education Music Education +2 more

Early College Planning Grant

Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
State/Local Government
Massachusetts
Up to US $50,000
The Early College Planning Grant aims to provide essential planning resources for applicants seeking Massachusetts Early College Designation. This grant prioritizes underrepresented students and supports partnerships between K-12 schools and higher education institutions. Eligible programs can apply for funding to develop infrastructure that fosters college access and success, with funding totals reaching approximately $1,105,000 for the fiscal year. Key deadlines for submissions are set for October 2025 and November 2025.
Career / College Preparation Teacher Development & Training College Success / Persistence +1 more

2027 Donald M. Payne International Development Graduate Fellowship Program Administration Gran

Bureau of Human Resources
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $2,798,770
The 2027 Donald M. Payne International Development Graduate Fellowship Program, administered by the Bureau of Human Resources, aims to attract talented individuals to the Foreign Service. This initiative offers financial support for two-year master's degree programs, alongside professional development and mentorship opportunities. By fostering a diverse and skilled workforce, the program seeks to address complex global challenges and enhance diplomatic relations, aligning with the Department of State's strategic goals.
Education - Higher Education Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness International / Foreign Affairs

Holly Dick Scholarship Fund for California Students

The Alaska Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

About Us

Overview

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives.

Mission

Inspiring the spirit of giving and connecting people, organizations, and causes to strengthen Alaska’s communities now and forever.

Vision

ACF envisions an Alaska where communities come together and have resources to thrive.

Holly Dick Scholarship Fund for California Students

A scholarship fund in support of post-high school education including vocational training that will provide a future career. This scholarship fund was created by Holly Dick who learned from her own life experiences how education can change lives.

Holly WaiHung Dick left mainland China with her family in 1947 for a better life in Hong Kong. Her life experiences taught her that education changes lives. After completing school in China, Holly was hired by Japan Airlines, where she met her future husband, an American, Mike Dick. Holly and Mike lived in Anchorage, where they loved to fish and enjoy friends, family, and their Alaskan life. Holly loved to help others along their path in life. She volunteered as a translator for immigrants and helped children in daycare settings.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education Career / College Preparation +1 more

Alabama Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF)

Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs
State/Local Government
Alabama
Unspecified amount

Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs works every day to positively impact Alabama communities through partnerships, grant programs, and services to spur community and economic development and enhance quality of life.

ADECA is a state agency that partners with leaders at the local level to positively impact and enhance the quality of life in Alabama communities through dozens of federal and state grant programs, surplus property, and water resource management.

ADECA’s grant programs support and fund local initiatives that communities often would not be able to afford on their own and improve many facets of life through community and economic development. Our programs help address critical infrastructure needs like water, sewer, and broadband; provide law enforcement equipment and support for victims of crime; build new trails and recreational features; and assist with energy efficiency that lowers energy costs.

Land and Water Conservation Fund

The U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, provides LWCF matching grants to States and local governments for the acquisition and development of outdoor recreation areas. The LWCF was established by Congress in 1964 “…to assist in preserving, developing and assuring accessibility to all citizens of the United States of America of present and future generations…such quality and quantity of outdoor recreation resources as may be available and are necessary and desirable for individual active participation…”

Matching Percentage: 50/50

An entity may not apply for both Recreational Trails Program (RTP) and LWCF assistance.

Outdoor Recreation Parks & Public Spaces Playgrounds +1 more

Arcora Foundation: Sponsorships

Delta Dental Of Washington
Private
Washington
US $1,000 - US $10,000
The Arcora Foundation offers sponsorships ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 to support Washington state organizations focused on reducing barriers to oral health care. Their mission emphasizes equity, aiming to uplift community-led initiatives that promote health and prevent disease. Applications should be submitted at least 8 weeks before the event, as sponsorship requests are considered monthly. This funding is not available for individual dental care.
Dental Health Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health Health Care Access & Delivery +1 more

Women of the Year

Central Kansas Community Foundation
Private
Harvey County, Kansas
Unspecified amount
The Women of the Year program, initiated in 1956 by the Central Kansas Community Foundation, honors women who have made significant contributions to their communities. Each year, three exceptional women are celebrated for their outstanding service in various fields such as education, business, and civic engagement. This program, now overseen by the Women's Community Foundation, continues to inspire future generations of female leaders in Harvey County, Kansas, fostering community transformation through dedicated service.
Civic Engagement & Education Entrepreneurship Women's Rights & Equality +1 more

Liberty Partnerships Program

New York State Education Department
State/Local Government
New York
Unspecified amount
The Liberty Partnerships Program, initiated by the New York State Education Department, aims to foster partnerships among Institutions of Higher Education and communities to support at-risk students. By providing essential services such as tutoring, counseling, and mentoring, the program seeks to enhance student engagement and reduce dropout rates. Through collaborative efforts, this initiative promotes innovative educational strategies that empower students to take active roles in their learning journey.
College Success / Persistence Student Retention & Drop-Out Prevention Tutoring & Mentoring

Wetmore Fund Grant

Charles & Elizabeth Wetmore Fund
Private
Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, Orleans Parish, Louisiana +5 more
US $10,000 - US $75,000
The Charles and Elizabeth Wetmore Fund, established by Elizabeth Bisland Wetmore, supports indigent native sufferers of respiratory illnesses, including tuberculosis and COVID-19, focusing on care and medical research. Grants are available for qualified 501(c)(3) organizations within New Orleans and its metropolitan area. The fund prioritizes programs that assist individuals earning less than 200% of the federal poverty level, but does not support direct payment assistance or for-profit entities.
Respiratory Diseases & Systems Tuberculosis

Housing First Scattered Site Supportive Housing for Homeless Adults Western New York and Long Island Region

New York State Office of Mental Health
State/Local Government
Chemung County, New York, Nassau County, New York +2 more
Unspecified amount

New York State Office of Mental Health

The New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH) oversees a large multi-faceted mental health system serving nearly 800,000 individuals each year. This includes operating 23 psychiatric centers and overseeing the Nathan S. Kline Institute and New York Psychiatric Institute. OMH regulates and certifies more than 6,500 programs operated by local governments and nonprofit agencies.

Mission

Our mission is to promote the mental health of all New Yorkers, with a particular focus on providing hope and recovery for adults with serious mental illness and children with serious emotional disturbances.

Housing First Scattered Site Supportive Housing for Homeless Adults Western New York and Long Island Region

The Office of Mental health is announcing funds to develop 45 units of Housing First Supportive Housing for homeless individuals in the following counties:

  • 20 units in Steuben and Chemung counties
  • 25 units in Nassau and Suffolk counties

Notification of intent to apply should be made to the Local Governmental Unit (county director of community services) for each county to be served under the program application, as defined in Section 41 of the New York State Mental Hygiene Law. Proof of this notification is required to be uploaded in SFS and should not be sent directly to the procurement unit.

Target Population

Individuals eligible for this program will be homeless and be enrolled in a Safe Options Support (SOS) team, Intensive and Sustained Engagement Team (INSET), or Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) Team. SPOA/SPA referrals are not a requirement of this RFP.

Please note that within this target population group, individuals with an Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT) order must receive priority access. 

Supportive Housing & Shelters Homelessness Services

BH27 Innovations to Advance Breastfeeding Continuation Solicitation

Ohio Department of Health and Human Services
State/Local Government
Ohio
More than US $30,000

Notice of Availability of Funds: Innovations to Advance Breastfeeding and Health Equity Competitive Solicitation

The Ohio Department of Health (ODH), Bureau of Maternal, Child, and Family Health announces the availability of competitive grant funds to comprehensively address breastfeeding and health equity. Up to $465,926 in funding is available. Multiple grants may be awarded. Funding levels for all applicants will depend on the number and scope of proposals received, recommendations from the review panel, quality of each application, justification for the amount of funding requested, need of the service area, and adherence to the goals and objectives outlined in this solicitation.

No applicant is guaranteed a certain percentage of the total funds available. ODH reserves the right to modify the number of grants awarded or amount of funding based on the applications, geographic representation, and funds available. No grant award will be issued for less than $30,000.

Qualified applicants include local public or non-profit organizations that have the capacity to accept an electronic funds transfer (EFT).

Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health Reproductive Health Reproductive Education +1 more

Enhancing Services to Culturally Specific Populations Program

Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency
State/Local Government
Pennsylvania
Up to US $125,000

Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency

Established by law in 1978, the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) serves as the justice planning and policymaking agency for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. By bringing together a wide range of experts in the fields of criminal and juvenile justice, victim services, and related professions, PCCD coordinates the collective examination of problems, proposes solutions, and evaluates the impact of those solutions.

Enhancing Services to Culturally Specific Populations

The purpose of this competitive solicitation is to expand the availability of services for victims of VAWA crimes (i.e. domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and/or dating violence) who are members of populations who, because of cultural or language challenges, don’t go for help to mainstream domestic violence and sexual assault centers. This goal is to be achieved through funding ‘culturally specific organizations’ in Pennsylvania.

Domestic Violence Sexual Assault / Abuse Minority Services +1 more

It's On Us PA Grants

Pennsylvania Department of Education
State/Local Government
Pennsylvania
Up to US $60,000
The It's On Us PA Grants program, initiated by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, aims to empower postsecondary institutions to combat sexual violence through education, prevention, and response initiatives. Institutions may apply for funding up to $60,000 based on enrollment size, with a specific focus on fostering awareness and improving reporting systems. This initiative encourages community involvement, aiming to create a safer educational environment for all students in Pennsylvania.
Domestic Violence Violence Prevention Sexual Assault / Abuse +1 more

Restoration Grant Programs: Addressing Climate Impacts

California Department of Fish and Wildlife
State/Local Government
California
Unspecified amount
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is offering restoration grants to address climate change impacts on fish and wildlife habitats. The program, supported by $35 million from the Budget Act of 2022, aims to enhance biodiversity, promote climate resiliency, and improve public access to natural resources. Eligible projects include water conservation initiatives, habitat restoration, and strategies aligned with the State Wildlife Action Plan. These grants are crucial for preserving California's ecological heritage.
Freshwater Conservation Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration

Restoration Grant Programs: Wetlands and Mountain Meadows Restoration

California Department of Fish and Wildlife
State/Local Government
California
Unspecified amount
The Restoration Grant Programs focus on enhancing wetlands and mountain meadows in California, with up to $54 million allocated for Nature-Based Solutions. This funding aims to restore ecosystems while providing co-benefits associated with climate resilience and biodiversity. Managed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, projects must align with the state’s wildlife action plan and promote coexistence with wildlife, including supporting beaver restoration efforts.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Freshwater Conservation

Limited Competition: Superfund Hazardous Substance Research and Training Program (P42 Clinical Trial Optional) (359650)

National Institutes of Health
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $1,750,000
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) invites applications for the Superfund Hazardous Substance Research and Training Program (P42 Clinical Trial Optional). This program supports interdisciplinary research centers focused on biomedical and environmental science. Eligible institutions must be accredited higher education establishments. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time, and successful submissions will undergo a rigorous peer-review process to ensure quality and relevance in addressing hazardous substance issues.
Environmental Chemistry & Toxicology Environmental Health

Charles B. Rangel Graduate Foreign Affairs Fellowship Program Administration Grant

United States Department of State (DOS)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $3,132,610
The Charles B. Rangel Graduate Foreign Affairs Fellowship Program aims to develop exceptional graduate talent for the U.S. Foreign Service. Managed by the Department of State, this 32-month initiative provides financial oversight, academic support, and internship opportunities for selected fellows. With a focus on rigorous operational management, the program ensures timely tuition and stipend disbursements while guiding fellows through essential onboarding and mentorship experiences. This initiative is crucial for fostering the next generation of foreign policy leaders.
Education - Higher Education Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness International / Foreign Affairs

Hays, Colin, Legacy Scholarship

Beatrice Educational Foundation
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $2,000
The Hays, Colin, Legacy Scholarship, administered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, offers financial assistance to deserving graduating seniors of Beatrice High School. With one to three scholarships available, totaling no more than $2,000, applicants must demonstrate strong academic performance, with a minimum GPA of 3.5. This initiative supports students in their pursuit of higher education, fostering academic excellence and community engagement in the Beatrice School District.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs Volunteerism & Philanthropy +2 more

Amos H. and Geraldine A. Lynch, Sr. Fund

The Columbus Foundation
Private
Ohio
More than US $500

The Columbus Foundation

In 1943, during the darkness of World War II, a group of passionate citizens, led by Columbus businessman Harrison M. Sayre, envisioned a way to improve the well-being of the community and the quality of life in central Ohio. With little more than this sound idea and faith, The Columbus Foundation was established.

Amos H. and Geraldine A. Lynch, Sr. Fund

This scholarship, established to honor Amos and Geraldine Lynch, is available to graduating high school seniors within the Columbus City School system.

Award Amount:

Minimum $500

Education - Higher Education Journalism Education - High School +1 more

Alternative Education Grant

Indiana Department of Education
State/Local Government
Indiana
Unspecified amount
The Alternative Education Grant supports innovative programs for public school students in grades 6-12 who struggle in traditional settings. This initiative promotes diverse educational options, including alternative classrooms and community partnerships, aiming to meet individual student needs. Eligible programs must maintain a low student-to-teacher ratio, operate for at least three hours daily, and provide individualized service plans. The grant fosters a supportive environment, helping students achieve academic success while complying with state standards.
Education - High School Education - Middle School Student Retention & Drop-Out Prevention

Patient Reported Outcomes (PROs) RFP

Arthritis Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $235,000
The Arthritis Foundation is seeking research proposals focused on Patient Reported Outcomes (PROs) to enhance shared decision-making in arthritis care. Projects should aim to deepen the understanding of patient treatment goals, monitor disease activity, and improve communication of PRO data. Research can span various arthritis types, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, and should last up to two years. This initiative emphasizes the integration of patient perspectives to elevate care quality.
Musculoskeletal Diseases Arthritis

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.

Last updated: November 2, 2026. Next update: December 6, 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
29.7%
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.