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 for a Small Grant?

If you have never received an Abell small grant (requests of $10,000 or less), you must attend an information session to confirm fit with eligibility criteria and funding priorities prior to submitting a small grant application. 

Sign up for an info session

Considering Applying for a Regular Grant?

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?

If you are a returning applicant or have met our eligibility criteria and requirements and are ready to apply for a grant, you may do so on the apply page.

Start a 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

Civic Works Inc.

$50,000 / 2023 / Health and Human Services

In support of completing the renovation of a former firehouse to serve as a home for Civic Works’ Food and Farm programs, and a community food distribution hub.

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Civil Justice Inc.

$100,000 / 2023 / Community Development

In support of the Tenant Debt Collection Defense Project, which provides legal representation and network attorneys for low- and moderate-income tenants who are sued after being evicted by rental property owners.

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Farm Alliance of Baltimore Inc.

$90,000 / 2023 / Community Development

In support of general operating costs and the Double Dollars program, which encourages use of federal benefits to purchase local farm produce, nutrition education, and hands-on training for beginning farmers at a new farm site in South Baltimore.

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Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake

$250,000 / 2023 / Workforce Development

In support of capital costs to establish an Excel Center adult high school in Baltimore City, where 165 adults can earn a high school diploma and industry-specific certifications, tuition-free.

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Intersection of Change

$75,000 / 2023 / Community Development

In support of capital expenses for an office expansion project that will allow Intersection of Change to develop and implement enhanced core programs.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.