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 reach out to an Abell staff member to discuss their idea or submit a short letter of inquiry prior to submitting a regular grant application.

Contact Us or Email Us 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

Arts for Learning Maryland

$80,000 / 2024 / Education

In support of renovating the lower level of Arts for Learning’s headquarters, providing 5,300 square feet of programming space for the Bloomberg Arts Internship (BAI) and other arts activities.

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At Jacob’s Well Inc.

$50,000 / 2024 / Criminal Justice and Addiction

In support of Phase II of At Jacob Well’s capital campaign, which will provide eight additional permanent supportive housing units for formerly homeless individuals with mental illness.

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Baltimore Corps

$125,000 / 2024 / Community Development

In support of general operating costs to facilitate community-centered impact. Baltimore Corps focuses on early- and mid-career talent and emerging social entrepreneurs and drives resources to historically disinvested organizations and leaders of color.

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Baltimore Kids Chess League Inc.

$65,000 / 2024 / Education

In support of the 2024-2025 after-school chess program for nearly 1,700 K-12th grade students in over 50 City Schools.

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Baltimore Police Department

$15,000 / 2024 / Workforce Development

In support of the Cadet Driving License Pilot Program, which will provide 15 cadets with driver training and licensing.

Header photo courtesy of Thread.