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

Public Justice Center Inc.

$75,000 / 2024 / Community Development

In support of policy advocacy to build legal defense and tenant assistance programs to prevent evictions and increase housing security; challenge unjust practices that create systemic harm to renters; and advance tenants’ rights to safe, habitable housing.

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Tahirih Justice Center

$30,000 / 2024 / Health and Human Services

In support of Tahirih Justice Center – Baltimore’s general operations, enabling it to provide free immigration legal services and social services coordination to survivors of gender-based violence.

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Teach For America-Baltimore

$110,000 / 2024 / Education

In support of the strategic recruitment and placement of 80-90 diverse corps members in difficult-to-staff teaching positions in low-income schools in Baltimore.

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Youth Empowered Society

$67,000 / 2024 / Health and Human Services

In support of general operations for the YES drop-in center, which addresses basic needs and provides case management and other supportive services for youth who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

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AZIZA PE&CE

$25,000 / 2024 / Health and Human Services

In support of general operations to serve Baltimore City youth, with a focus on Black girls and LGBTQ+ youth.

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Header photo courtesy of Thread.