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 your saved application or submit a report for a previously awarded grant.

Return to Your Application or Submit a Report

See Our Past Grants

Baltimore City Mayor’s Office, Fiscally Sponsored by Baltimore Civic Fund

$100,000 / 2022 / Health and Human Services

In support of Baltimore’s Guaranteed Income Pilot Project, which will provide monthly cash payments to 200 low-income parents, ages 18-24, and evaluate the impact of those payments on the parents and their children.

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Baltimore Green Space

$50,000 / 2022 / Community Development

In support of efforts to bolster and support the long-term sustainability of and access to green spaces. Baltimore Green Space will collaborate with community leaders and residents to protect additional green spaces and provide technical assistance.

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Banner Neighborhoods Community Corporation

$75,000 / 2022 / Health and Human Services

In support of Banner Neighborhoods’ capital campaign supporting the renovation of 1819 East Preston St. This building will enable Banner Neighborhoods to substantially expand its workforce and youth development programs.

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BioTechnical Institute of Maryland, Inc.

$80,000 / 2022 / Workforce Development

In support of the BioTechnical Institute of Maryland, which provides training for Baltimore residents to obtain jobs as entry-level technicians in the bio-pharma industry.

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Blue Water Baltimore, Inc.

$50,000 / 2022 / Environment

In support of clean water and watershed protection, targeted policy work to elevate community concerns, legislative advocacy, and litigation to hold polluters accountable under the Clean Water Act. This grant provides staff support to address top pollutants plaguing Baltimore City and its waterways: stormwater runoff and sewage overflows.

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Header photo courtesy of Thread.