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

From the Heart Productions

$50,000 / 2024 / Criminal Justice and Addiction

In support of “The Last Trace,” a documentary focused on a groundbreaking DNA collection initiative in the Baltimore region that has led to the solving of multiple rape cold cases.

The Heritage Crossing Resident Association, Fiscally Sponsored by Fusion Partnerships Inc.

$30,000 / 2024 / Community Development

In support of efforts to engage the Housing Authority of Baltimore to preserve the balance of owner occupants and renters in this mixed-income development. Funds will support legal and other expenses associated with acquiring and reviewing document.

Higher Achievement Baltimore

$50,000 / 2024 / Education

In support of general operating expenses for Higher Achievement, an after-school initiative taking place at three Baltimore City schools and serving 150-200 students during the 2023-2024 school year.

Learn More

Historic East Baltimore Community Action Coalition Inc.

$50,000 / 2024 / Health and Human Services

In support of operating costs for The NEST, a 10-bed emergency shelter for homeless young adults.

Learn More

Johns Hopkins University

$30,000 / 2024 / Education

In support of hands-on genetics activities through Project BioEYES for up to 50 eighth-grade City Schools teachers serving an estimated 4,000 students.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.