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

The Book Thing of Baltimore Inc.

$30,000 / 2025 / Education

In support of general operating funds to build out The Book Thing’s operational capacity, expand the number of giveaway days each month, solidify structures to reinforce its volunteer base, build fundraising capacity, and assist with board development.

Learn more

Building STEPS Inc.

$40,000 / 2025 / Education

In support of the STEM workshops, college advising, internships, and college-directed programming to nearly 400 Baltimore City students.

Learn more

Center for Urban Families Inc.

$30,000 / 2025 / Workforce Development

In support of CFUF’s Economic Success programming, helping over 250 Baltimore residents to access and retain meaningful employment, strengthen families, and create intergenerational wealth.

Learn more

Charm City Care Connection

$75,000 / 2025 / Criminal Justice and Addiction

In support of continued operations of the Harm Reduction Drop-in Center (HRDC) for people with a substance use disorder to provide a safe space to access needed services and support. The HRDC provides low barrier and easy-to-access services, including the following: syringe exchange, fentanyl test strip distribution, naloxone distribution, community meals, and case management.

Learn more

Fund for Educational Excellence

$40,000 / 2025 / Education

In support of technical assistance and grant writing support for 10 Baltimore City early childcare providers seeking to apply for Blueprint Pre-K Expansion funding.

Learn more

Header photo courtesy of Thread.