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

Johns Hopkins University

$208,424 / 2024 / Health and Human Services

In support of the Johns Hopkins, Esperanza Center, Asylee Women’s Enterprise, and Loyola Refugee Health and Asylum Collaborative (HEAL Collaborative), which provides pro-bono forensic physical and psychological evaluations, healthcare, mental health services, and resource navigation to asylum-seekers who have survived torture and trauma.

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Julie Community Center

$36,821 / 2024 / Workforce Development

In support of providing 20 Baltimore City residents (including 10 Spanish-speaking) with 150+ hours of Maryland State Department of Education/Office of Child Care course work needed for employment in childcare in the state of Maryland.

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Manna House Inc.

$25,000 / 2024 / Health and Human Services

In support of general operations.

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Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service

$75,000 / 2024 / Community Development

In support of staff and operating expenses associated with the Housing Stability and Legacy program, which provides free legal services to eligible Baltimore City homeowners and removes barriers to housing and financial stability.

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New American Community Lending Corporation

$50,000 / 2024 / Community Development

In support of promoting New American Lending small business loans and financial coaching in Baltimore City.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.