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

Building STEPS, Inc.

$30,546 / 2022 / Education

In support of STEM workshops, college advising, STEM-related internships, and college-directed programming provided to students in the Building STEPS program.

Learn More

Byte Back

$100,000 / 2022 / Workforce Development

In support of free digital literacy training for 100 low-income adults in Baltimore. By helping these adults master fundamental computer skills and Microsoft applications, Byte Back aims to help program graduates to earn IT certifications and secure jobs in IT.

Learn More

Civic Works, Inc.

$200,000 / 2022 / Community Development

In support of staffing for Civic Works’ Energy Programs, which offer weatherization, home energy efficiency, and health and safety improvements to low- and moderate-income households. Services are provided at no cost through state implementation funding and local utility rebates.

Learn More

CollegeBound Foundation, Inc.

$100,000 / 2022 / Education

In support of the CollegeBound Finishers’ Fund for graduates of Baltimore City Schools. The Finishers’ Fund is designed to address emergency needs for students who experience a sudden change in financial aid or are “near-completers” looking to return to college.

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The Community School

$25,000 / 2022 / Education

In support of the academic and mentoring program at The Community School. The Community School is a state-certified, non-public school that provides individualized academics and mentoring for high school students who require an alternative educational route.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.