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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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32,565 Results based on applied filters

Carlson Family Educational Foundation Fund

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Kansas, Missouri
US $5,000

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Carlson Family Educational Foundation Fund

The purpose of this scholarship fund is to assist students who plan to attend junior college, trade schools, university or certification training who have demonstrated a strong work ethic both inside and outside the classroom.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Brandmeyer Scholarship

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Kansas, Missouri
Unspecified amount

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Brandmeyer Scholarship

The Brandmeyer Scholarship provides financial assistance to students who have faced adversity and view education as a tool to help change the trajectory of their lives. Our scholars are seeking a brighter future by continuing their education at a two-year or four-year college or university (pursuing an associate, undergraduate and/or graduate degree) or at a vocational or technical school.

The Brandmeyer Scholarships are renewable provided students maintain a 3.0+ GPA each semester and give back by completing at least 10 hours of community service annually.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Community Impact Grants - General Operating Support

Center for Jewish Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix
Private
Maricopa County, Arizona
Up to US $25,000
The Community Impact Grants by the Center for Jewish Philanthropy of Greater Phoenix provide essential support to 501(c)(3) organizations and local Jewish entities that serve the Greater Phoenix area. These grants focus on innovative programming and the sustainability of Jewish life and leadership both locally and abroad. Eligible organizations must demonstrate fiscal soundness and a proven track record, ensuring that funding directly benefits the community. Applications are encouraged to align with CJP's mission and vision.
Human & Social Services Community Development & Revitalization Judaism

Affiliate Grants - Guest Speaker Fund

American Musicological Society Inc
Private
United States
Up to US $1,500
The Affiliate Grants - Guest Speaker Fund, provided by the American Musicological Society, offers financial assistance to AMS committees and study groups inviting external speakers to the Annual Meeting. Grants up to $1,500 cover travel expenses and honoraria for invited guests, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration within musicology. Applications must be submitted by group representatives, and the deadline precedes the standard proposal deadlines for committee activities. This program encourages enriching discussions by including diverse voices from outside the field.
Music Nonprofit Growth & Development

Shakespeare in American Communities: Apprenticeships

Arts Midwest
Private
United States
US $20,000 - US $30,000
The Shakespeare in American Communities: Apprenticeships program by Arts Midwest offers grants of up to $30,000 to support paid apprenticeships for emerging theater professionals across the U.S. This initiative aims to enhance community-based theater activities, providing essential on-the-job training for early-career administrators and technicians, while fostering engagement with Shakespeare's works. Organizations of all sizes are encouraged to apply, ensuring diverse representation and opportunities in the arts.
Theater

NCAA Graduate Student Research Grant Program

National Collegiate Athletic Association
Private
Canada, Puerto Rico +2 more
Up to US $7,500
The NCAA Graduate Student Research Grant Program offers funding up to $7,500 for graduate research focused on intercollegiate athletics and the psychosocial experiences of college student-athletes. It aims to enhance empirical research and provide financial support for high-quality projects. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a graduate program at an NCAA member institution and engage in research during the award period. The program prioritizes studies that advance understanding in social and behavioral sciences.
Education - Higher Education Sports & Athletics

First Cumberland Properties Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee
Private
Davidson County, Tennessee
Unspecified amount
The First Cumberland Properties Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, supports residents of subsidized housing in Davidson County. Eligible applicants must have a high school diploma or GED, maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA, and plan to attend an accredited college, university, or technical school. This fund aims to enhance educational opportunities and promote upward mobility, contributing to the foundation's mission of fostering a thriving and inclusive community.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Dolores C. Shockley Poster Awards - Undergraduates

American Society For Pharmacology And Experimental Therapeutics Inc
Private
Multnomah County, Oregon
US $50 - US $150
The Dolores C. Shockley Poster Awards for undergraduates honor Dr. Dolores C. Shockley, a pioneer in pharmacology and advocate for diversity. Established by ASPET in 2010, these awards are part of the ASPET Annual Meeting's poster competition. They recognize outstanding research by undergraduate students and aim to support underrepresented groups in the biomedical sciences. Winners receive cash prizes, with 1st place awarded $150 and 2nd place $50, promoting academic excellence and diversity in the field.
Pharmacology Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Nancy Stump Seiger Scholarship Fund

Berks County Community Foundation
Private
Berks County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Nancy Stump Seiger Scholarship Fund, managed by the Berks County Community Foundation, offers scholarships to graduating seniors from Berks County planning to pursue education at Kutztown University. Established in 1994, the foundation aims to fulfill charitable goals by distributing millions in scholarships and grants annually to support local students and nonprofit endeavors. This fund specifically encourages future educators, helping them achieve their academic aspirations.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Combined Pilot Research Grants: CSPS/PSF

Plastic Surgery Foundation
Private
California
Up to US $15,000
The Combined Pilot Research Grants from the Plastic Surgery Foundation (PSF) and California Society of Plastic Surgeons (CSPS) aim to fund innovative pilot research projects in hand and plastic surgery. With a budget of up to $15,000 for one year, this grant seeks to enhance scientific knowledge and clinical practices. Eligible applicants include MDs, DOs, or PhDs holding full-time positions in California, with a focus on advancing surgeon scientists and their research endeavors.
Reconstructive Surgery

Combined Pilot Research Grants: PSRC/PSF

Plastic Surgery Foundation
Private
Canada, United States
Up to US $15,000
The Combined Pilot Research Grants program, supported by the Plastic Surgery Foundation and various surgical organizations, aims to promote innovative research in hand and plastic surgery. With funding of up to $10,000 for one-year pilot projects, this initiative encourages the development of surgeon scientists and seeks to enhance research funding in the field. Eligible applicants must be medical professionals holding relevant positions in U.S. or Canadian institutions.
Reconstructive Surgery

Charles J. Lewin Interfaith Scholarship

Southcoast Community Foundation
Private
Barnstable County, Massachusetts, Bristol County, Massachusetts +2 more
Unspecified amount
The Charles J. Lewin Interfaith Scholarship, established by the SouthCoast Community Foundation, aims to support high school seniors and adults from Barnstable, Bristol, Dukes, and Plymouth counties in Massachusetts pursuing higher education. This scholarship considers financial need (50%), academic performance (30%), and personal circumstances (20%). Since 1995, the foundation has facilitated over $50 million in funding to enhance educational opportunities and improve community welfare.
Academic Scholarship Programs Senior Services

Rogers Family Foundation Fund

Rogers Family Foundation Co Gma Foundations Inc
Private
Massachusetts, New Hampshire
US $5,000 - US $25,000
The Rogers Family Foundation Fund supports nonprofit organizations focused on education, health, human services, community development, and the arts in Massachusetts' Merrimack Valley and North Shore, as well as Southeastern New Hampshire. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt under 501(c)(3) and not classified as private foundations. Proposal deadlines are March 1 and September 1, with specific funding interests prioritized for program support.
Education Health & Medicine Human & Social Services +2 more

Community Facilities Grant Program in Montana

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Community Facilities Grant Program in Montana aims to provide affordable funding for essential community facilities in rural areas. This program supports various projects including healthcare, public safety, and educational services, ensuring communities have access to necessary resources. Eligible applicants include public bodies and non-profit organizations, with funding priorities focusing on low-income and small communities. Grants can cover up to 75% of project costs, making it a vital resource for rural development.
Rural Development

Lewis McManus Memorial Fund - Education for Disadvantaged Youth

Beckley Area Foundation
Private
Raleigh County, West Virginia
Unspecified amount
The Lewis McManus Memorial Fund, established by the Beckley Area Foundation, aims to enhance educational opportunities for disadvantaged youth in Raleigh County. With a total of $11,500 available for grants, the fund supports innovative educational initiatives and programs. Organizations eligible for funding must be recognized as non-profits and demonstrate a commitment to serving local youth. The fund honors Lewis McManus, a notable community leader and educator, ensuring his legacy impacts future generations.
Academic Success & Enrichment Education - K through 12

Higgins Family Fund - Performing Arts in the Schools

Beckley Area Foundation
Private
Raleigh County, West Virginia
Unspecified amount
The Higgins Family Fund, established by the Beckley Area Foundation in 2005, aims to enhance performing arts education in local schools. With a mission to inspire charitable giving, the fund offers $1,500 to support programs that present performing arts exhibitions to Raleigh County school children. Eligibility includes non-profit organizations or public institutions, with projects required to be completed by February 28, 2026. This initiative reflects the community's commitment to arts education and cultural enrichment.
Performing Arts Education - K through 12

Community Facilities Grant Program in Nevada

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Nevada
Unspecified amount
The Community Facilities Grant Program in Nevada offers funding to develop vital community facilities in rural areas, benefiting towns with populations under 20,000. Eligible projects include healthcare, public safety, education, and essential services. This program prioritizes lower-income communities, providing up to 75% funding for qualifying projects. Applicants can be public bodies, non-profits, or federally recognized tribes. It's a year-round program, ensuring ongoing support to enhance community infrastructure and services.
Rural Development

Community Facilities Grant Program in Minnesota

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Minnesota
Unspecified amount
The Community Facilities Grant Program in Minnesota offers essential funding to develop community facilities in rural areas. This program supports projects that enhance healthcare, public safety, education, and community services. Eligible applicants include public bodies and non-profit organizations targeting areas with populations under 20,000. Grants are awarded based on income levels and community size, ensuring that low-income and smaller communities receive priority funding. By addressing community needs, this initiative fosters sustainable development in rural Minnesota.
Rural Development

The Bolick Foundation Grant

The Bolick Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Bolick Foundation Grant, established in 1967, supports nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations that promote the Christian faith. Located in Conover, NC, the foundation emphasizes grant-making to strengthen religious, charitable, and educational initiatives. Applicants must be registered in the USA and possess a tax identification number. Importantly, the foundation does not provide grants to individuals, ensuring that funds are directed towards collective community impact. For further details, please refer to the FAQs on their official website.
Christianity Religious / Theological Education

Community Facilities Grant Program in Michigan

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Community Facilities Grant Program in Michigan offers essential funding to rural areas for developing community facilities. This program supports public bodies, non-profit organizations, and federally recognized tribes in improving services like healthcare, education, and safety. Eligible areas include communities with populations under 20,000. Grants can cover up to 75% of project costs, depending on community income levels, ensuring that smaller, lower-income communities receive the assistance they need for vital infrastructure improvements.
Rural Development

Montana Beef Council Project Funding

Montana Beef Council
Association/Society
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Montana Beef Council Project Funding supports innovative ideas for beef promotion, research, and education. Established in 1954, the Council aims to enhance demand for beef products through various marketing programs. Annual funding requests are reviewed by a board of directors, with applicants encouraged to engage with staff for optimal presentation preparation. While funding is not guaranteed for subsequent years, applicants can present their projects to relevant committees, ensuring a thorough evaluation process.
Livestock & Ranching

Virginia Whitsitt Memorial Scholarship

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Missouri
US $2,000

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Virginia Whitsitt Memorial Scholarship

The Virginia Whitsitt Memorial Scholarship Fund program provides annual scholarships to graduating seniors in honor of Helen Virginia Whitsitt. Scholarship awards are focused on students interested in pursuing a career in teaching and that demonstrate financial need. If qualified applicants are not available, the scholarship may be awarded to teachers who have returned to school for their master’s degree in education.

One scholarship will be awarded annually and disbursed in equal payments in July and January. Recipients must continue to be enrolled full-time and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or above the previous semester to be eligible for the second payment. Scholarship awards are non-renewable.

Education - Higher Education Teacher Development & Training

Community Facilities Grant Program in Massachusetts

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Massachusetts
Unspecified amount
The Community Facilities Grant Program in Massachusetts provides essential funding for developing community facilities in rural areas. This program supports public bodies, non-profits, and federally recognized tribes in purchasing, constructing, or improving vital services such as healthcare, education, and public safety. Eligible areas are rural communities with populations under 20,000, aiming to enhance quality of life through accessible facilities and services. Funding is available year-round, emphasizing support for low-income communities.
Rural Development

Community Facilities Grant Program in Maryland

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Maryland
Unspecified amount
The Community Facilities Grant Program in Maryland provides essential funding to support the development of vital community facilities in rural areas. Eligible projects can include healthcare centers, public safety facilities, and community support services. Grants are available to public bodies and nonprofit organizations, with funding levels based on median household income and population size. This initiative aims to enhance the quality of life and economic viability in rural communities throughout the state.
Rural Development

Achievement Annual Scholarship

CIRI Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $10,000
The Achievement Annual Scholarship, offered by the CIRI Foundation, supports Alaska Native students pursuing higher education. This merit-based scholarship awards up to $8,000 for one academic year, covering direct educational costs and personal expenses. Applicants must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and be enrolled full-time in a 4-year undergraduate or graduate program. The scholarship aims to promote academic excellence and career development while honoring the cultural legacy of Alaska Natives.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

PLTW Gateway - New Program (EQT Foundation)

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
Fayette County, Pennsylvania, Greene County, Pennsylvania +3 more
US $10,000
The PLTW Gateway grant, funded by the EQT Foundation, supports schools in implementing PLTW Gateway programs for the upcoming academic year. Eligible applicants are public and charter schools in specific counties, including Greene County, PA, and Marshall County, WV. Grantees must offer at least one PLTW unit and complete two years of reporting. The funds cover necessary program expenses, such as training and equipment, while certain costs like meals and infrastructure improvements are unallowable.
Teacher Development & Training STEM / STEAM Education

Community Facilities Grant Program in Maine

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Maine
Unspecified amount
The Community Facilities Grant Program in Maine provides essential funding for developing community facilities in rural areas. Eligible entities, including public bodies and non-profit corporations, can access grants and low-interest loans to improve vital services like healthcare, education, and public safety. The program prioritizes assistance to smaller communities with lower median incomes, ensuring that all residents have access to necessary facilities and services. This initiative fosters community growth and stability throughout rural Maine.
Rural Development

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.