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 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

Baltimore Community ToolBank

$17,200 / 2016 / Community Development

For continued support of outreach, fundraising, program staffing, and environmental asset maintenance expenses. 

AIDS Interfaith Residential Services, Inc.

$200,000 / 2016 / Health and Human Services

For supportive services for formerly homeless youth at Restoration Gardens I and II.

University of Maryland School of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences

$28,000 / 2016 / Health and Human Services

In support of examining the burden of ophthalmic disease in the underserved in Baltimore.

Trash Free Maryland

$25,000 / 2016 / Environment

In support of an initiative to reduce trash pollution in Baltimore City and its waterways, with a focus on banning polystyrene foam food containers.

Thread, Inc.

$150,000 / 2016 / Education

For operational funds in support of the Thread Community Model.

Header photo courtesy of Thread.