Grants

The Abell Foundation awards grants to nonprofit community partners working to improve the quality of life in Baltimore. We provide seed funding for innovative pilots, support for ongoing community programs and services, and funding for capital projects. In addition to providing grant funding, the Foundation supports our nonprofit partners through connection to our local and national networks, as well as our team’s deep experience in and knowledge of Baltimore as it relates to our program areas.

Learn More About Our Process

Eligibility and Review Criteria

For all nonprofit organizations seeking grant funding, regardless of the request amount. 

Small Grants Process

For grant requests of $10,000 or less.

Reviewed on a rolling basis. There is no deadline to apply.

Regular Grants Process

For grant requests greater than $10,000.

Reviewed at one of the Foundation’s five annual Board meetings.

Submit an Application

Considering Applying?

First-time applicants with grant requests greater than $10,000 should submit a short letter of inquiry prior to submitting a regular grant application. For guidance on what to include in your LOI, please reference our frequently asked questions.

Submit an LOI

Ready to Apply for a Small Grant?

For first-time or returning applicants with grant requests of $10,000 or less. We accept and review small grant applications on a rolling basis. There is no deadline to apply for a small grant.

Start a Small Grant Application

Ready to Apply for a Regular Grant?

For returning applicants and those who have a verified fit with the Foundation’s priorities for requests greater than $10,000. Regular grant applications are reviewed at one of five Board meetings each year.

Start a Regular Grant Application

Returning to a Saved Application or Submitting a Report?

Log into the grant portal below to return to a saved application or submit a report for a previously awarded grant. Report forms can be found under the “Requirements” tab.

Return to Your Application or Submit a Report

See Our Past Grants

Asylee Women Enterprise

$80,000 / 2024 / Health and Human Services

In support of Asylee Women’s Enterprise’s immigration legal services program.

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Baltimore City Public Schools Re-Engagement Center, Fiscally Sponsored by Fund for Educational Excellence

$50,000 / 2024 / Education

In support of general operating expenses for the Baltimore City Public Schools Re-Engagement Center as it supports 1,600 students, including 300 justice-involved youth, in the 2024-2025 school year as part of the new Transition Center program.

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Banner Neighborhoods Community Corporation

$80,000 / 2024 / Community Development

In support of general operations for staff and programs supporting senior homeowner repair, summer youth employment, and youth sports in Southeast and East Baltimore.

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Be Org Inc.

$30,000 / 2024 / Education

In support of general operating expenses for Be. Org, a mentoring, workforce development, and STEM improvement program serving approximately 650 students.

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BUILD

$75,000 / 2024 / Criminal Justice and Addiction

In support of organizing and training leaders, including returning citizens, to address systemic criminal justice barriers in Baltimore City and Maryland.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.