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

Maryland PIRG Foundation

$40,000 / 2023 / Environment

In support of the Smart Energy Solutions campaign to improve implementation of Maryland’s energy efficiency policies and programs to achieve greater and more equitable consumer and climate benefits.

Learn More

MEANS Database DBA FoodRecovery.org

$20,000 / 2023 / Health and Human Services

In support of recovering food and decreasing food insecurity in Baltimore in collaboration with Sharing Excess.

MedStar Harbor Hospital

$135,224 / 2023 / Health and Human Services

In support of MedStar Health’s Multi-Visit Patient Plus Program at Harbor Hospital, which aims to improve care coordination and health outcomes, as well as lower healthcare costs, for individuals who frequently use the emergency department.

Learn More

Per Scholas

$50,000 / 2023 / Workforce Development

In support of providing 150 residents with free IT training, with 85% graduating from the 15-week program and earning an industry-recognized credential, and 80% of those gaining employment with wages of $19 an hour.

Learn More

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy

$60,000 / 2023 / Environment

In support of advancing the Baltimore Greenway to bring nature, recreation, and connectivity to residents across Baltimore.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.