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

Healthy Neighborhoods Inc.

$140,000 / 2025 / Community Development

In support of the Middle Neighborhoods Vacants Reduction Program to renovate vacant houses for sale to owner-occupants and incentivize demand through innovative real estate marketing and favorable mortgage financing.

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HeartSmiles

$100,000 / 2025 / Workforce Development

In support of HeartSmiles, which supports the growth and development of Baltimore youth ages 14 to 21 by providing youth-led leadership and entrepreneurial training as well as mentoring, mental health support, and business development.

Learn more

Identity Access Project

$50,000 / 2025 / Health and Human Services

In support of Identity Access Project’s partnership with the Franciscan Center, to provide vital documents for individuals experiencing homelessness and housing instability.

Learn more

International Rescue Committee Inc.

$150,000 / 2025 / Health and Human Services

In support of the International Rescue Committee’s emergency needs for refugees and humanitarian immigrants in Baltimore.

Learn more

Johns Hopkins University Whiting School of Engineering

$150,000 / 2025 / Community Development

In support of Baltimore Healthcare Innovator Retention fellowships for Johns Hopkins University biomedical engineering graduates to address critical healthcare challenges, accelerate product development and investment, and create local companies and jobs.

Header photo courtesy of Thread.