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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 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

Maryland Access to Justice Commission, Fiscally Sponsored by Maryland Bar Foundation

$15,000 / 2024 / Health and Human Services

In support of a study of Community Justice Worker program models that employ non-lawyers to provide basic legal services.

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Maryland Citizens’ Health Initiative Education Fund Inc. DBA Health Care for All

$75,000 / 2024 / Health and Human Services

In support of general operations.

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Modern Classrooms Project

$75,000 / 2024 / Education

In support of continued growth of the Modern Classrooms Project pilot in Baltimore, targeting an estimated 500 classrooms during the 2024-2025 school year.

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Next Generation Language Access, Fiscally Sponsored by Fusion Partnerships Inc.

$34,235 / 2024 / Health and Human Services

In support of Next Generation Language Access’s general operations.

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Open Works

$125,000 / 2024 / Community Development

In support of project expenses associated with establishing the Westside Open Works makerspace in West Baltimore. Tools, technology, and accompanying technical knowledge will help improve the economic mobility of residents in adjacent communities.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.