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

Fund for Educational Excellence

$75,000 / 2014 / Education

Toward the implementation of the Baltimore Promise, a citywide cradle to career initiative.

Chesapeake Climate Action Network

$25,000 / 2014 / Environment

For continued staffing support and expansion of the Maryland Healthy Communities campaign.

Venture for America

$150,000 / 2014 / Community Development

To place ten 2014 college graduates in start‑up and early stage companies in Baltimore City; and for ongoing programming and professional development for the 2013 Fellows.

Public Justice Center, Inc.

$140,000 / 2014 / Community Development

Toward support of the Rent Court Reform Initiative of the Human Right to Housing Project.

Maryland Consumer Rights Coalition, Inc.

$30,562 / 2014 / Community Development

For a follow‑up study on the impact of mandatory auto insurance requirements on low‑ and middle‑income Baltimore City residents.

Header photo courtesy of Thread.