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 Venetoulis Institute for Local Journalism

$100,000 / 2023 / Community Development

In support of the Baltimore Banner’s reporting and in-depth investigations around gun violence in Baltimore.

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The Work First Foundation

$200,000 / 2023 / Workforce Development

In support of helping returning citizens find employment, reducing their chances of being reincarcerated.

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The York Road Partnership, Fiscally Sponsored by GEDCO

$34,927 / 2023 / Community Development

In support of efforts improve the York Road commercial corridor in Greater Govans, such as reversing long-term disinvestment and creating a crowdfunding tool to raise local, community capital for acquisition, renovation, ownership, and leasing of vacant and under-utilized commercial buildings in adjacent neigborhoods.

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Baltimore City Competitive Robotics Program, Fiscally Sponsored by Fund for Educational Excellence

$100,000 / 2023 / Education

In support of coach stipends, equipment costs, and tournament fees for the Baltimore City Competitive Robotics Program, a citywide initiative serving nearly 700 students.

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Baltimore Kids Chess League Inc.

$65,000 / 2023 / Education

In support of the 2023-2024 after-school chess program for nearly 1,700 K-12th grade students in 57 Baltimore City schools.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.