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

Homeless Persons Representation Project Inc.

$50,000 / 2024 / Health and Human Services

In support of the Homeless Youth Initiative, which provides legal representation to unaccompanied homeless youth, engages in state and local coalitions to address the needs of homeless youth, and advocates for policy solutions to youth homelessness in Maryland.

Learn More

Human Trafficking Prevention Project, Fiscally Sponsored by Uplift Alliance Inc.

$68,000 / 2024 / Criminal Justice and Addiction

In support of general operations for the Human Trafficking Prevention Project (HTTP), which provides criminal record relief and civil legal assistance to survivors of human trafficking.

Learn More

Improving Education

$100,000 / 2024 / Education

In support of expanding the All Children Ready initiative at 15 Baltimore Head Start centers and providing teacher supports in pre-kindergarten classrooms at four Baltimore City schools.

Learn More

Innovation Works Inc.

$37,500 / 2024 / Community Development

In support of staff and operational costs to strengthen social enterprises to create sustainable, livable wage jobs. Innovation Works will provide entrepreneurs with training, mentorship, technical assistance, and/or financial support through a five-phase pipeline strategy.

Learn More

Johns Hopkins University

$60,522 / 2024 / Health and Human Services

In support of Active and Healthy Families, a Spanish-language weight management program for overweight and obese Latino children 5-12 years old and their families.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.