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 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 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 your saved application or submit a report for a previously awarded grant.

Return to Your Application or Submit a Report

See Our Past Grants

Manumission House Inc., Fiscally Sponsored by University of Baltimore Foundation

$100,000 / 2025 / Criminal Justice and Addiction

In support of two years of funding to provide housing and reentry support for justice-impacted students pursuing higher education in Baltimore City.

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Maryland Dental Action Coalition Inc.

$100,000 / 2025 / Health and Human Services

In support of a two-year campaign to expand access to oral health for children, underserved communities, and Medicaid participants.

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Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development

$250,000 / 2025 / Community Development

In support of staff to collect and analyze data and report on progress of the Baltimore Vacants Reinvestment Initiative.

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New Ecology Inc.

$41,916 / 2025 / Environment

In support of preparing rowhomes and residents for home modifications that center housing stabilization, energy efficiency and savings, and increasing resilience for a changing climate.

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Pro Bono Resource Center of Maryland Inc.

$99,780 / 2025 / Community Development

In support of staff and project expenses for the Tax Sale Prevention Project, which provides legal assistance, information, and education to Baltimore City homeowners at risk of tax sale foreclosure. PBRC also advocates for changes to the tax sale system.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.