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

Center for Urban Families Inc.

$300,000 / 2023 / Workforce Development

In support of CFUF’s Economic Success programming for Baltimore residents to access and retain meaningful employment and create intergenerational wealth and family achievement.

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Chase Brexton Health Care

$75,000 / 2023 / Health and Human Services

In support of a new social work position that will focus on connecting uninsured clients at Chase Brexton’s Baltimore City clinic to free or affordable specialty care.

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City Life Community Builders Ltd

$30,000 / 2023 / Community Development

In support of down payment and closing cost assistance for service-oriented professionals, including police officers, firefighters, and health care facilitators, in the neighborhoods surrounding the Henderson Crossing redevelopment project in East Baltimore.

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Civic Works Inc.

$50,000 / 2023 / Health and Human Services

In support of completing the renovation of a former firehouse to serve as a home for Civic Works’ Food and Farm programs, and a community food distribution hub.

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Civil Justice Inc.

$100,000 / 2023 / Community Development

In support of the Tenant Debt Collection Defense Project, which provides legal representation and network attorneys for low- and moderate-income tenants who are sued after being evicted by rental property owners.

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Header photo courtesy of Thread.