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

Jane Addams Resource Corporation

$100,000 / 2024 / Workforce Development

In support of welding and computer numerical control (CNC) training for 60 low-income adults in Baltimore. JARC helps trainees earn industry-recognized certifications and start careers in manufacturing and construction.

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Maryland Consumer Rights Coalition Inc. DBA Economic Action Maryland

$125,000 / 2024 / Community Development

In support of staff and program costs for the Supporting Older Adult Resources (SOAR) and Tenant Advocacy programs. SOAR helps low-income households access MD Renters and Homeowners property tax credits. The Tenant Advocacy project assists landlords with rental registration and licensing and advises tenants.

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Maryland Food Bank

$100,000 / 2024 / Health and Human Services

In support of the Food First Capacity Grants and Hunger Hotspot programs in Baltimore City, which help Maryland Food Bank’s partner organizations better meet the needs of their clients by expanding capacity and targeting resources to underserved communities.

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Maryland New Directions

$120,000 / 2024 / Workforce Development

In support of providing 240 job seekers in Baltimore with one-on-one job coaching for immediate job placement as well as occupational skills training for careers in the transportation and logistics industry.

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Maryland Philanthropy Network

$19,170 / 2024 / Community Development

In support of 2024 membership dues.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.