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 for a Small Grant?

If you have never received an Abell small grant (requests of $10,000 or less), you must attend an information session to confirm fit with eligibility criteria and funding priorities prior to submitting a small grant application. 

Sign up for an info session

Considering Applying for a Regular Grant?

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?

If you are a returning applicant or have met our eligibility criteria and requirements and are ready to apply for a grant, you may do so on the apply page.

Start a Grant Application

Returning to a Saved Application or Submitting a Report?

Log into the grant portal below to return to your saved application or submit a report for a previously awarded grant.

Return to Your Application or Submit a Report

See Our Past Grants

Farm Alliance of Baltimore Inc.

$60,000 / 2024 / Community Development

In support of the Black Butterfly Urban Farmer Academy to train and incubate urban farmers, boost farm production, and address food insecurity.

Learn More

Food & Water Watch

$30,000 / 2024 / Community Development

In support of implementing Water4All and advocacy to preserve low-income water customer affordability and stability in regional governance and statewide tax sale proposals.

Learn More

Franciscan Center Inc.

$50,000 / 2024 / Health and Human Services

In support of 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.

Learn More

Friends of Gwynns Falls – Leakin Park Inc.

$30,000 / 2024 / Environment

In support of general operations and advocacy for investment in the city’s largest park.

Learn More

Holistic Life Foundation Inc.

$39,999 / 2024 / Education

In support of implementing the Mindful Moment Program in three partner schools, serving around 2,300 students across Baltimore City.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.