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

Central Baltimore Partnership Inc.

$35,000 / 2023 / Community Development

In support of boosting makers and small-batch manufacturers and assessing vacant and underutilized industrial and commercial property capacity to increase the growth of a light industrial economy in Station North.

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Chesapeake Climate Action Network

$60,000 / 2023 / Environment

In support of a campaign to promote clean energy, advance electrification of the building sector, and reduce climate pollution from greenhouse gases and fossil fuel infrastructure in and around Baltimore.

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Civic Works Inc.

$80,000 / 2023 / Community Development

In support of outreach and application assistance to increase low-income household participation in utility benefits, including water affordability, energy bill-pay assistance, and broadband access.

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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.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.