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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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32,545 Results based on applied filters

Martin Luther King, Jr. Book Scholarship

Muskingum County Community Foundation
Corporate
Muskingum County, Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Martin Luther King Jr. Book Scholarship, offered by the Muskingum County Community Foundation, aims to support minority high school seniors in Muskingum County in their pursuit of higher education. Eligible students must meet specific criteria, including a minimum GPA of 3.0 and an ACT score of 18 or higher. This scholarship reflects the foundation's commitment to enhancing community quality of life through educational opportunities.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

PLTW Gateway- New Program ( Indiana)

Project Lead the Way inc.
Private
Indiana
Up to US $30,000
The PLTW Gateway program in Indiana aims to enhance STEM education by allowing schools to implement new PLTW programs or expand existing ones for the 2026-2027 academic year. Eligible schools can receive up to $30,000 over two years, with the requirement to offer at least two different PLTW Gateway units. This initiative supports public, private, and charter schools, fostering innovative learning environments in Indiana.
Teacher Development & Training STEM / STEAM Education

BLACF Award in Philanthropy

CommunityGiving
Private
Crow Wing County, Minnesota
Unspecified amount
The BLACF Award in Philanthropy honors individuals or couples contributing significantly to philanthropy in the Brainerd Lakes Area. Nominations are accepted from the community, recognizing personal philanthropy, volunteer efforts, or professional advisory roles. Established in 2005, this award fosters a legacy of generosity and inspires future philanthropic leaders. The award will be presented at the foundation’s annual dinner in July, celebrating the remarkable commitment of community members to enhance local nonprofits and initiatives.
Volunteerism & Philanthropy

University of Nebraska-Kearney Cooperating School Scholarship

Beatrice Educational Foundation
Association/Society
Gage County, Nebraska
Unspecified amount
The University of Nebraska-Kearney Cooperating School Scholarship, offered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, supports students in the student-teacher program. Established to enhance educational opportunities, this scholarship requires recipients to maintain a 3.0 GPA and complete 24 semester hours annually. Eligible students must rank in the top 30% of their class and achieve a minimum ACT score of 23, ensuring that dedicated learners receive the financial assistance they need to succeed.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Soroptimist International of Elk Grove Dream Scholarship

Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation
Association/Society
Sacramento County, California
US $2,000
The Soroptimist International of Elk Grove Dream Scholarship supports female students from the Elk Grove Unified School District, aiding their pursuit of higher education at 4-year universities, community colleges, or vocational schools. This scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, emphasizes financial need, ensuring that deserving candidates receive the necessary assistance to achieve their academic aspirations. Eligible schools include Elk Grove High, Cosumnes High, and several others, making this opportunity widely accessible.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Vette, Fred and Virginia V., Scholarship

Beatrice Educational Foundation
Association/Society
Gage County, Nebraska
US $6,000
The Vette, Fred and Virginia V. Scholarship, managed by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, offers five scholarships of $6,000 each, distributed over four years, to Beatrice High School seniors. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate financial need and preference is given to those attending the University of Nebraska at Lincoln. The foundation has a significant endowment fund and has been supporting local education since 1987, contributing over $55,000 annually in scholarships.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Shelly Clark Dixon Memorial Scholarship

Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation
Association/Society
Sacramento County, California
US $1,000
The Shelly Clark Dixon Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, supports students pursuing careers in teaching and educational administration. This scholarship is available to full-time students from various Elk Grove area schools, including Calvine and Franklin. Applicants are encouraged to participate in school and community activities, with a preference for those demonstrating financial need. This initiative honors Shelly Clark Dixon's legacy in education.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Mary E. Massingill Honey Bear Scholarship

Community Foundation of West Texas
Private
Texas
Unspecified amount
The Mary E. Massingill Honey Bear Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of West Texas, honors a dedicated educator and supports graduating high school seniors from Honey Elementary with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. This scholarship aims to foster a love of learning and prepare students for higher education, emphasizing the importance of skilled educators in the classroom. Annually, one deserving student will receive this award, ensuring a lasting impact on their educational journey.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Rice Scholarship Fund

Maine Community Foundation
Private
Maine
Unspecified amount
The Rice Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation in 1996, offers scholarships to students who have spent significant time on Maine's offshore islands and are pursuing higher education. This fund supports residents from both offshore and bridged islands, encouraging them to further their education at accredited institutions. Selection is based on financial need and commitment to community service, ensuring support for deserving students in Maine.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Professional Development Partnerships for Early Childhood Education

Texas Education Agency
State/Local Government
Texas
US $500,000
The Professional Development Partnerships for Early Childhood Education program, managed by the Texas Education Agency, aims to enhance the skills of early childhood trainers and instructional coaches. It offers extensive training and support through professional development opportunities, micro-credentials, and facilitated learning communities. This initiative seeks to ensure high-quality instruction for practicing early childhood educators, ultimately benefiting the educational outcomes of young learners across the state.
Education - Preschool / Early Learning Early Childhood Development

Villafane, Brandon, Scholarship

Beatrice Educational Foundation
Association/Society
Gage County, Nebraska
US $2,000
The Villafane, Brandon, Scholarship offers a $2,000 award to a graduating senior from Beatrice High School who demonstrates mental toughness, a team-oriented attitude, and strong work ethic. Established by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, which has been supporting local education since 1987, this scholarship aims to recognize students who participate in sports such as football, basketball, or track. Financial need, academic achievement, and extracurricular involvement will also be considered.
Academic Scholarship Programs Education - Higher Education

SPC Cares Foundation's Member Hardship Fund

The SPC Cares Foundation
Association/Society
South Carolina
Up to US $1,500

The SPC Cares Foundation

The SPC Cares Foundation was established in 2024 as a way for SPC Credit Union to strategically support four key development issues identified within our community: Hunger, Housing, Employment, & Education. The Foundation supports our local communities through monetary donations, in-kind donation drives, and volunteerism.

Member Hardship Fund

SPC Cares Foundation's Member Hardship Fund provides financial assistance up to $1,500 in the form of a grant to Members who are experiencing financial hardship due to events beyond their control, including disasters, extended illnesses or injuries, and other special situations. The Member Hardship Fund does not aid with non-emergency situations or financial difficulties due to poor financial management, judgement, or negligence. Assistance for emergencies and crisis situations are considered on a case-by-case basis, and requested funding is not guaranteed.

This fund is intended to provide relief to SPC Members who are currently experiencing financial hardship. In accordance with the IRS, financial hardship must be demonstrated to receive grant funding and is understood to mean negative household income, meaning there is not enough income or limited to no savings to meet your required financial obligations. 

Basic Human Needs Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid

SPC Scholarship Fund

The SPC Cares Foundation
Association/Society
South Carolina
US $1,000

The SPC Cares Foundation

The SPC Cares Foundation was established in 2024 as a way for SPC Credit Union to strategically support four key development issues identified within our community: Hunger, Housing, Employment, & Education. The Foundation supports our local communities through monetary donations, in-kind donation drives, and volunteerism.

SPC Scholarship Fund

SPC Scholarships are available to improve the lives of Members who want to further their education. Scholarship opportunities are available for high school students entering college, adults returning to college, and children of SPC CU employees and board members.

Applications are considered on both academic and needs-based criteria.

These funds are provided by SPC Credit Union in partnership with the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation.

Education - Higher Education Adult Education

Debbie Callahan Arts Scholarship

Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

The Community Foundation proudly supports students in Portage and Waushara counties with over $325,000 in scholarships annually, thanks to the generosity of local individuals and families. Award amounts range from $500 to $40,000, opening doors to educational opportunities.

The Community Foundation provides scholarships for a wide range of students, including high school seniors, college students, non-traditional learners, and those pursuing specific fields of study.

Debbie Callahan Arts Scholarship

Must be attending an arts school or pursuing an arts major.

Education - Higher Education Art Education

Samuel K. and Lois T. Wolf Scholarship

Center for Scholarship Administration (CSA)
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

The Center for Scholarship Administration

The Center for Scholarship Administration (CSA) provides corporations, foundations, trust funds, and individual philanthropists scholarship selection and administration management that is experienced, professional, and cost efficient while lending the program an integrity not inherent in internal selection committees.

Samuel K. and Lois T. Wolf Scholarship

The Wolf, Samuel K. and Lois T. Scholarship is providing scholarships for deserving students. The Center for Scholarship Administration, Inc. (CSA), a non-profit, independent organization is the facilitator of the scholarship fund.

Recipients must attend Thomas Jefferson University in Pennsylvania. Recipients must be full-time and working towards a degree in the medical profession.

The institution must be an educational organization that normally maintains a regular faculty and curriculum and normally has a regularly enrolled body of pupils or students in attendance at the place where its educational activities are regularly conducted. To the extent the institution is involved in the selection of the recipients (if at all), that involvement must comply with the Scholarship Program`s policy of awarding scholarships on an objective and non-discriminatory basis as well as the Scholarship Program`s Conflict of Interest Policy.

This scholarship is for one year only; however, current recipients may reapply and be considered for additional funding along with other new applicants. Scholarship recipients must be enrolled full-time. Scholarship recipients are limited to four total years of scholarship award and are expected to have been enrolled consecutive years during that time.

Education - Higher Education Medical Education & Professional Training

Tri Kappa Scholarship - Sue Crisman Memorial Scholarship

Crown Point Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Tri Kappa Scholarship - Sue Crisman Memorial Scholarship, established by the Crown Point Community Foundation, supports women over 21 who are returning to education after a significant gap and are involved in community service. This non-renewable scholarship aims to enhance the quality of life in South Lake County by providing financial assistance to deserving candidates. Award recipients are invited to a special Scholarship Awards Night, fostering community engagement and recognition.
Adult Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Zimmerman, Ken, Health Care Scholarship

Beatrice Educational Foundation
Association/Society
Gage County, Nebraska
US $500
The Zimmerman, Ken, Health Care Scholarship, offered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, provides a $500 award to a graduating senior from Beatrice High School pursuing a career in health care. With a focus on academic excellence and community involvement, this scholarship supports students entering fields such as nursing, rehabilitation, or hospital administration. Funds are distributed in two installments of $250 each semester, encouraging commitment to education in health services.
Academic Scholarship Programs Education - Higher Education

Folk & Traditional Arts Apprenticeship Project

New Jersey State Council on the Arts
State/Local Government
New Jersey
US $10,000

New Jersey State Council on the Arts

In 1966, the legislature passed and the governor signed a law creating the NJ State Council on the Arts and directing us to do all that is necessary and appropriate to: support, encourage, and foster public interest in the arts; enlarge public and private resources devoted to the arts; promote freedom of expression in the arts; and facilitate the inclusion of art in every public building in New Jersey.

Folk & Traditional Arts Apprenticeship Project

FTAP grants provide $10,000 to support an individualized, structured learning opportunity between an Apprentice artist and one or more Mentor Artists. By providing funds to support artists’ time and project expenses, FTAP grants allow intermediate-level artists to significantly advance their skills and cultural knowledge in a specific folk and traditional art form. Strong apprenticeships foster the continuation of valued community traditions, contributing to the ongoing vitality of these specific folk and traditional arts.

The FTAP application process is a two-part process. After submitting Application Part 1, eligible applicants will be sent the link to Application Part 2.

Folk Art / Traditional Art Apprenticeship & Internship Programs

Lubbock Manufacturers Scholarship

Community Foundation of West Texas
Private
Lubbock County, Texas
Unspecified amount
The Lubbock Manufacturers Scholarship, established by local manufacturers, aims to support Lubbock County seniors pursuing education in industrial technology. This initiative not only provides financial assistance but also fosters the development of a skilled workforce in the region. With a minimum GPA requirement and a focus on exceptional aptitude in industrial technology, this scholarship seeks to empower students to excel in their careers and contribute positively to the community.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Summit County: Building Hope Mental Health Scholarship

Vail Health Behavioral Health
Association/Society
Summit County, Colorado
Unspecified amount
The Summit County: Building Hope Mental Health Scholarship offers crucial support by providing up to 12 free mental health sessions for residents and employees in Summit County, Colorado. This initiative addresses the financial barriers that often prevent individuals from accessing necessary care. Accepted by various private providers, the scholarship ensures that those in need can receive therapy and psychiatric appointments without the burden of costs, fostering a healthier community.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Cognitive Intervention & Therapy

Robert C. Boehner Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation of the Ozarks Inc.
Private
Missouri
US $1,000
The Robert C. Boehner Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, awards one $1,000 scholarship to undergraduate students entering their final year at accredited institutions. Eligible candidates must major in areas like Construction Architecture or Engineering, reside in specific counties within SWMO, and maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher. Applicants must submit an essay, transcripts, and two letters of recommendation to demonstrate their community service involvement.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Yvette T. Rowlett Memorial Scholarship

Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation
Association/Society
Sacramento County, California
US $1,500
The Yvette T. Rowlett Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, supports high school seniors from the Elk Grove Unified School District facing socio-economic challenges or learning disabilities. This scholarship encourages candidates who demonstrate perseverance and self-advocacy, and who are committed to completing a college degree. Preference is given to those in need and participation in community activities is required, ensuring that recipients can serve as role models for their peers.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Indian Motorcycle + Polaris Trade Scholarship

American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES)
Association/Society
United States
US $2,000

Our Mission

AISES is a national nonprofit organization focused on substantially increasing the representation of Indigenous peoples of North America and the Pacific Islands in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) studies and careers.

AISES Scholarships

Funding the STEM futures of American Indian, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and First Nations Students.

AISES recognizes education as a means of empowerment, personal growth, and fosters the diversity Indigenous students will bring to STEM landscapes. We provide financial aid to Indigenous students in STEM through scholarships funded by our dedicated donors and partners.

Indian Motorcycle + Polaris Trade Scholarship

Indian Motorcycle along with the Polaris Foundation are proud to partner with AISES to offer academic and vocational scholarships for the 2026/2027 academic year. As a leader in power sports, we bring cutting edge innovation to the product we design and the experiences we create for those who play, work and thrive outside.

STEM / STEAM Education Vocational & Trade Education

James K. Stringwell Scholarship

Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation
Private
Washtenaw County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The James K. Stringwell Scholarship, offered by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, provides financial support to graduating seniors from public high schools in Washtenaw County who plan to attend a Michigan public university or college. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5, demonstrate financial need, and show involvement in athletics or artistic activities. This scholarship aims to empower students with emotional intelligence and an entrepreneurial spirit, contributing to their educational pursuits.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

X Hope Scholarship

Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation
Association/Society
Sacramento County, California
US $1,000
The X Hope Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, supports foster or adopted youth pursuing post-secondary education at a four-year university, community college, or vocational college. Applicants are required to be full-time students and participate in school and community activities. A short essay detailing the impact of their adoption or foster family is also required. This scholarship is a valuable resource for students in the Elk Grove Unified School District.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Pat Ostrander 4-Star Collection Quartet Scholarship

Sweet Adelines International Corporation
Private
United States
US $1,600
The Pat Ostrander 4-Star Collection Quartet Scholarship, established by Sweet Adelines International, offers $1,600 to two quartets to attend the 2026 A Cappella Academy or the Sweet Adelines International Convention. To qualify, quartet members must be active Sweet Adelines members and submit three recommendations, demonstrating their commitment. This initiative celebrates barbershop harmony and empowers quartets to enhance their skills through structured educational events, fostering a vibrant community of singers.
Music

STFM Resident Teacher Award

Society of Teachers of Family Medicine (STFM)
Association/Society
Kansas
Unspecified amount

Society of Teachers of Family Medicine (STFM) 

Founded in 1967, the Society of Teachers of Family Medicine (STFM) is a national community of academic leaders committed to developing an accomplished family medicine workforce, prepared to serve as the foundation of America’s health care system. Our members include physicians, PAs, nurse practitioners, behavioral health specialists, researchers, pharmacists, nurses and other health care professionals, health system executives, administrators, coordinators, fellows, residents, students, and others involved in the education of family physicians. 

STFM Resident Teacher Award

The Resident Teacher Award recognizes teaching contributions by residents. Each family medicine residency program can give this award annually to the resident who has best demonstrated interest in and commitment to family medicine education.

Teacher Development & Training Medical Education & Professional Training

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.