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

Drink at The Well – Hon’s Honey Social Enterprise

$60,000 / 2023 / Health and Human Services

In support of Hon’s Honey, a social enterprise of Drink at The Well, located in the South Baltimore community of Curtis Bay. Hon’s Honey offers employment opportunities for women who have experienced trauma and who participate in The Well’s mentoring program.

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Food & Water Watch

$30,000 / 2023 / Community Development

In support of outreach and advocacy to ensure effective implementation of “Water4All,” an income-based water assistance program for low-income residents in Baltimore City, and consideration of affordability in regional governance strategies.

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Franciscan Center Inc.

$50,000 / 2023 / Health and Human Services

In support of the general operations for the Franciscan Center, which provides food, case management, emergency financial assistance, and employment training to individuals and families who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.

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Healthy Neighborhoods Inc.

$200,000 / 2023 / Community Development

In support of the Renew Baltimore Nonprofits Program to improve the energy efficiency of nonprofit-owned facilities, reduce energy usage and carbon emissions, and reinvest cost savings into enhancing nonprofit services.

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HeartSmiles

$100,000 / 2023 / Workforce Development

In support of HeartSmiles, which supports the growth and development of Baltimore youth ages 14 to 21 by providing youth-led leadership and entrepreneurial training as well as mentoring and business development resources.

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Header photo courtesy of Thread.