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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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32,618 Results based on applied filters

Ozaukee County 4-H Foundation Scholarships

Ozaukee County 4-H Foundation
Association/Society
Ozaukee County, Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Ozaukee County 4-H Foundation Scholarships support outstanding 4-H members pursuing higher education. These scholarships, funded by generous donations, honor students who have shown exceptional leadership and personal growth in their 4-H journey. Each year, specific named scholarships are awarded, alongside additional unnamed scholarships for 4-H youth. Eligible applicants must be active 4-H members, high school seniors, or recent graduates with a minimum of five years of membership.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

BayCare Clinic Foundation Grant: Mental Health Initiative Grant

BayCare Clinic Foundation
Private
Brown County, Wisconsin, Door County, Wisconsin +8 more
Unspecified amount
The BayCare Clinic Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing mental health initiatives in northeastern Wisconsin. This grant supports 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that propose innovative programs addressing mental health challenges, particularly for underserved populations. With quarterly funding opportunities, the Foundation aims to improve overall community well-being through collaborations that foster health and wellness. Eligible organizations must operate within the BayCare Clinic service areas and address pressing mental health issues effectively.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases

New York Lake Champlain Basin Wetland and Floodplain Restoration Projects

Lake Champlain Basin Program
State/Local Government
New York
Up to US $1,300,000
The New York Lake Champlain Basin Wetland and Floodplain Restoration Projects aim to enhance the ecological health of the Lake Champlain Basin by restoring critical wetlands and floodplains. With approximately $1,300,000 available in funding, this initiative seeks proposals that will improve water quality and support biodiversity. By collaborating with local agencies and organizations, the program emphasizes the conservation of vital habitats, ensuring a sustainable environment for future generations.
Freshwater Conservation

North Star Black Cooperative Fellowship

Nexus Community Partners
Private
Anoka County, Minnesota, Carver County, Minnesota +5 more
US $1,000
The North Star Black Cooperative Fellowship aims to empower Black-led cooperatives by reconnecting them with their historical roots in cooperative economics. This seven-month program encourages participants to reclaim the legacy of Black economic cooperation, offering training in governance, conflict resolution, and cooperative skills. With a focus on community building and collective care, the fellowship includes stipends and support for creating cooperative economic projects, fostering a vision of self-governance and shared prosperity among Black communities.
Black American Services

Ohio College Opportunity Grant (OCOG)

Ohio Department of Higher Education
State/Local Government
Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Ohio College Opportunity Grant (OCOG) is designed to assist Ohio residents with significant financial need, as determined by the FAFSA. Eligible individuals include those pursuing associate degrees or first bachelor's degrees at recognized institutions, with a maximum household income of $96,000. The grant adapts based on tuition costs, ensuring support for students in various programs, including foster youth and veterans at community colleges. This initiative fosters access to higher education across Ohio.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Governor’s Merit Scholarship (GMS)

Ohio Department of Higher Education
State/Local Government
Ohio
Up to US $5,000
The Governor’s Merit Scholarship (GMS) aims to retain Ohio's top high school graduates by providing financial support for higher education. Funded at $20 million annually, it awards up to $5,000 per year for four years to eligible students attending qualifying institutions in Ohio. The program encourages academic excellence and aims to reduce financial barriers, ensuring that outstanding students can pursue their education in-state, thereby contributing to the state's workforce and economy.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Body Worn Camera Grant Funding Request for Proposal

Ohio Office of Criminal & Justice Services
State/Local Government
Ohio
US $3,127 - US $122,720
The Ohio Body-Worn Camera Grant Program aims to enhance law enforcement transparency and accountability by providing funding for agencies to establish or upgrade their body-worn camera programs. With a budget of $10 million, the program prioritizes agencies without existing camera systems. In 2023, the average award was approximately $43,482, addressing crucial needs for improved evidence collection and officer training, ultimately fostering better community relations and public trust.
Police & Law Enforcement

WIIN 2107: Voluntary School and Child Care Lead Testing and Reduction Grant

Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)
State/Local Government
Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The WIIN 2107 Grant, offered by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, provides funding to schools and child care facilities for lead reduction in drinking water. Eligible applicants must demonstrate lead levels exceeding 5 parts per billion in fixtures, and the grant supports projects like hydration station installation and point-of-use devices. This initiative aims to ensure safer drinking water for children in Pennsylvania, addressing lead contamination effectively.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Posey County Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program

Posey County Community Foundation
Association/Society
Posey County, Indiana
Unspecified amount
The Posey County Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program aims to enhance educational attainment in Indiana by providing scholarships for full tuition and fees for eligible students. Administered locally by community foundations, it supports those graduating from accredited Indiana high schools and encourages students to engage with their communities. Scholars receive financial assistance for books and equipment, fostering academic success and collaboration with local leaders, thereby improving overall quality of life in Indiana.
Academic Scholarship Programs Civic Leadership Development

WAEF Scholarships - AgWest Farm Credit

Washington Apple Education Foundation
Private
Washington
US $1,250
The WAEF Scholarships, offered by the Washington Apple Education Foundation, provide crucial financial support to over 300 students pursuing higher education, with awards totaling over $1 million. Applicants must have ties to Washington's tree fruit industry, whether through family employment or ownership. This initiative encourages students to further their education in various fields, especially those aligned with the banking and lending sectors, ensuring a skilled workforce for the industry.
Agricultural Crops All fields of work

WAEF Scholarships - Allan Brothers

Washington Apple Education Foundation
Private
Washington
US $2,500
The WAEF Scholarships, provided by the Washington Apple Education Foundation, support over 300 students annually, awarding more than $1 million in educational funding. These scholarships are primarily aimed at students with parents employed in the tree fruit industry, including roles at Allan Brothers. Eligible recipients can pursue various degrees at accredited institutions, with awards potentially renewable for multiple years, promoting educational advancement in the agricultural sector.
Agricultural Crops All fields of work

WAEF Scholarships - CCM

Washington Apple Education Foundation
Private
Washington
US $10,400
The WAEF Scholarships support over 300 students this year with more than $1 million in educational awards, funded by contributions from the tree fruit industry. Eligible applicants include current high school seniors and college students with family ties to the industry. Scholarships can be used at accredited colleges and universities, benefiting those whose parents are employed in related businesses, such as orchards and warehouses.
Agricultural Crops All fields of work

Pittsburgh Foundation Basic Needs Grants: Child Care

Pittsburgh Foundation
Private
Allegheny County, Pennsylvania
US $10,000 - US $75,000
The Pittsburgh Foundation Basic Needs Grants for Child Care aims to enhance access to quality child care for low-income families, particularly those from BIPOC communities. The foundation seeks to address barriers such as affordability and limited availability of providers, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Grants range from $10,000 to $150,000, focusing on initiatives that promote equitable access, workforce stability, and high-quality care, ensuring children develop in safe and nurturing environments.
Child Care Services

Goodman and Gilman Award in Receptor Pharmacology

American Society For Pharmacology And Experimental Therapeutics Inc
Private
Fulton County, Georgia
US $2,500
The Goodman and Gilman Award in Receptor Pharmacology, established in 1980, honors significant research in the pharmacology of biological receptors. This biennial award recognizes outstanding contributions that enhance understanding of biological mechanisms and drug discovery. Recipients receive a $2,500 honorarium, an engraved plaque, and coverage for travel to the ASPET Annual Meeting. The selection process emphasizes original research and contributions to the field, encouraging diverse nominations from underrepresented communities.
Pharmacology Biochemistry

Pittsburgh Foundation Basic Needs Grants: Food Access

Pittsburgh Foundation
Private
Allegheny County, Pennsylvania
US $10,000 - US $75,000
The Pittsburgh Foundation Basic Needs Grants: Food Access aims to combat food insecurity in Allegheny County, where nearly 11% of residents lack consistent access to sufficient food. This initiative supports programs such as food banks, meal delivery, and community gardens, focusing on providing healthy, culturally-appropriate food for low-income families. Grants range from $10,000 to $150,000, depending on the duration and specifics of the program, helping improve the overall stability and well-being of the community.
Food Access & Hunger

CCF: Pride in the Hills Fund (LBGTQ+) Grant

Connecticut Community Foundation
Private
Litchfield County, Connecticut, New Haven County, Connecticut
US $5,000 - US $15,000
The Pride in the Hills Fund, managed by the Connecticut Community Foundation, aims to support and celebrate LGBTQ+ individuals in Greater Waterbury and Litchfield Hills. Established in 1923, the fund seeks to inspire generosity and foster an equitable community by funding programs that address critical issues and support local organizations. Applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations or municipal entities, and the fund encourages projects that promote advocacy, system change, and core nonprofit operations.
LGBTQIA+ Services Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Equity and Social Justice Grants: End Mass Incarceration

Pittsburgh Foundation
Private
Allegheny County, Pennsylvania
US $10,000 - US $75,000
The Pittsburgh Foundation's Equity and Social Justice Grants aim to combat mass incarceration by prioritizing community-led solutions. With a history of supporting vulnerable populations, these grants focus on civic participation and systemic policy changes. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) charities located in or serving Allegheny County. Grant amounts range from $10,000 to $150,000, emphasizing the importance of leadership from those directly affected by injustice.
Criminal Justice System Reform

Dallas- Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG)

Dallas County Texas
State/Local Government
Dallas County, Texas
Unspecified amount
The Dallas Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) provides approximately $190,000 annually to support homeless services in Dallas County. These funds are allocated to nonprofit organizations that deliver essential assistance and support to individuals experiencing homelessness. Services include emergency night shelter, transitional housing, and health support. For more information, please contact local partners such as The Bridge Homeless Recovery Center and Housing Forward NTX for resources and assistance.
Homelessness Services

Equus Research Career Award

Equus Foundation Inc
Private
United States
US $6,500
The Equus Veterinary Research Fellowship, established by the Equus Foundation and The Foundation For The Horse, offers a $5,000 scholarship and a $500 travel stipend to support equine research. Open to graduates of AVMA-accredited veterinary schools nearing residency or doctoral completion, this fellowship encourages innovative research in horse health care. Applications are accepted from mid-July to August, promoting the advancement of equine veterinary practices and the training of future researchers.
Veterinary Science & Services Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Taking Action with Data: Using Environmental Public Health Tracking Data to Improve Environmental Health in a Community Grant

Wisconsin Department of Health Services
State/Local Government
Wisconsin
Up to US $10,000
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services is offering a grant aimed at improving environmental health through data-driven initiatives in local public health agencies and federally recognized Tribes. This funding opportunity, which amounts to up to $10,000 per agency, encourages innovative projects that address local environmental health concerns using Wisconsin Tracking data. The initiative seeks to enhance community health and wellness by empowering agencies with the necessary resources to implement effective solutions.
Environmental Health

State Historical Fund: Emergency Grants

History Colorado
Private
Colorado
Up to US $15,000
The State Historical Fund: Emergency Grants provide crucial funding for immediate stabilization efforts when historic resources face imminent risk of damage due to unforeseen events like natural disasters. Administered by History Colorado, these grants support public entities and certified nonprofit organizations in Colorado. Timely application within three months of the incident is essential for eligibility. This program plays a vital role in preserving the state's rich cultural heritage and ensuring that significant sites are safeguarded from further harm.
Disaster Preparedness Historic Preservation

Charles L. Brewer Distinguished Teaching of Psychology Award

American Psychological Foundation Inc
Private
Afghanistan, Africa +34 more
US $3,000
The Charles L. Brewer Distinguished Teaching of Psychology Award honors psychologists with outstanding teaching records. Awardees receive a plaque, a $2,000 monetary prize, and a $1,000 travel stipend, along with the opportunity to present at the APA Annual Convention. This prestigious award encourages nominations from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing achievements in teaching, curriculum development, and research in psychology education. Note that self-nominations are not permitted, and international applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria.
Psychology

Frances M. Culbertson Travel Grant

American Psychological Foundation Inc
Private
United States
US $1,500
The Frances M. Culbertson Travel Grant provides essential funding for women from developing countries at the beginning of their psychology careers. This grant helps address the challenges posed by limited resources, allowing recipients to attend international and regional conferences. Eligible applicants must hold a doctoral degree and be within ten years postdoctoral, promoting diversity in the field. Preference is given to those attending key psychology conferences, fostering professional growth and networking opportunities.
Psychology

Mary E. Bivins Foundation: Healthy Seniors Grant

Mary E Bivins Foundation
Private
Armstrong County, Texas, Briscoe County, Texas +24 more
US $2,500 - US $25,000
The Mary E. Bivins Foundation Healthy Seniors Grant supports nonprofit organizations in the Texas Panhandle that enhance the quality of life for older adults. The 2024 grant program focuses on vital issues such as hunger, nutrition, transportation, and social connection for seniors. With a simplified application process, this initiative aims to address critical needs and empower organizations dedicated to improving senior welfare in the community.
Senior Services Aging / Gerontology

Causal Research on the Impacts of K‑12 School Policies RFP

Arnold Ventures
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Arnold Ventures

Overview

Arnold Ventures (AV) is a philanthropy dedicated to improving the lives of Americans through evidence-based policy solutions that maximize opportunity and minimize injustice. We focus on improving systems where outcomes are falling short, incentives are misaligned, and the time is right for change.

To advance this mission, we invest in rigorous research to better understand the root causes of problems and strengthen the evidence base on what works to solve them. Using this evidence, we advocate for policy reforms and help build durable, bipartisan coalitions for lasting change.

Request for Proposals

Causal Research on the Impacts of K-12 School Policies 

The next several years present an important opportunity to shape the future of state K-12 education policy. States are making consequential decisions about curriculum, assessment, and accountability systems; school choice and governance policies; and teacher and leader workforce policies. High-quality research in these areas will help policymakers distinguish between reforms that are merely appealing and those that meaningfully improve student outcomes over the long term.

Through this request for proposals (RFP), Arnold Ventures seeks to support research studies that estimate the causal effects of actionable, politically viable U.S. K-12 education policies that can be influenced at the state level and have the potential to improve outcomes at scale. Competitive proposals should employ rigorous causal research methods and, where feasible, examine not only short-term educational outcomes but also longer-term impacts on postsecondary and/or labor market outcomes using administrative data. Given the pace of state policymaking, we place a high value on research that can inform decisions quickly and will give preference to studies that can be completed within 18 months of project kickoff and/or produce actionable findings by the end of 2028.

Education - K through 12 Education System Policy & Reform

Paradise for Good Grant

Community Foundation of the Florida Keys
Private
Florida
US $1,000 - US $20,000
The Paradise for Good Grant, offered by the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys, provides financial support ranging from $5,000 to $30,000 for initiatives that enhance the lives of local residents. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and faith-based organizations serving the Florida Keys. The foundation seeks projects aligned with its strategic vision, addressing community needs with measurable outcomes, and demonstrating sustainability beyond the grant period.
Nonprofit Growth & Development Economic Services & Development Community Development & Revitalization +1 more

New Jersey Emergency Medical Shock Trauma Air Rescue JEMSTAR

State of New Jersey Department of Health
State/Local Government
New Jersey
Approximately US $6,000,000
The New Jersey Emergency Medical Shock Trauma Air Rescue (JEMSTAR) program, overseen by the New Jersey Department of Health, aims to enhance public health response through a dedicated helicopter service. This initiative serves both residents and visitors, ensuring timely medical assistance across the state. To qualify for funding, applicants must be established helicopter or communication centers in good financial standing. This program addresses critical healthcare needs and reinforces New Jersey's emergency medical services framework.
Emergency Medical Care & Services

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.

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