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

Chesapeake Climate Action Network

$60,000 / 2025 / Environment

In support of promoting clean energy, advancing electrification of the building sector, and reducing climate pollution from greenhouse gases and fossil fuel infrastructure in Baltimore and across Maryland.

Learn More

Civic Works Inc.

$150,000 / 2025 / Community Development

In support of reducing home energy burdens and strengthening the financial resilience of low-income households through critical energy efficiency, electrification and decarbonization, and health and safety improvement services.

Learn More

Community Law Center Inc.

$40,000 / 2025 / Community Development

In support of legal staff and advocacy for community economic redevelopment related to reinvestment in vacant houses.

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Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) for Children of Baltimore Inc.

$60,360 / 2025 / Health and Human Services

In support of CASA of Baltimore’s general operations, to train and support advocates working with children in Baltimore’s foster care system.

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Faith and Work Enterprises Inc.

$68,000 / 2025 / Workforce Development

In support of serving 150 Sandtown-Winchester residents, connecting them to public benefits, housing, substance use disorder treatment services, mental health services, occupational skills training and employment.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.