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

The Community School

$25,000 / 2023 / Education

In support of the academic and mentoring program at The Community School.

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Energy Justice Network

$50,000 / 2023 / Environment

In support of staff and operational costs for the Clean Air Baltimore Coalition project, which focuses on deconstruction instead of demolition for older buildings, and building decarbonization with a focus on meeting the city’s climate goals by electrifying the district energy heating system.

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Fuel Fund of Maryland

$50,000 / 2023 / Community Development

In support of the Silver Lights energy assistance program for Baltimore City seniors and households with critical medical needs, which provides one-one-one navigational support for accessing utility fee assistance.

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Grow Home Inc.

$60,000 / 2023 / Workforce Development

In support of establishing a youth apprenticeship program and expanding the Baltimore Builders program, providing 65 youth from the Brooklyn/Curtis Bay neighborhood with paid work experience and exposure to careers in high-growth industries.

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Homeless Persons Representation Project Inc.

$123,000 / 2023 / Health and Human Services

In support of the Homeless Youth Initiative, which provides legal representation to unaccompanied homeless youth, engages in state and local coalitions to address the needs of homeless youth, and advocates for policy solutions to youth homelessness in Maryland.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.