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.

$100,000 / 2023 / Community Development

In support of capital costs associated with creating a community health hub in the Midway neighborhood, which will transform 1.5 acres of underutilized greenspace into an outdoor classroom, multi-sport playing field, and best-in-class play amenities.

Learn More

Chesapeake Legal Alliance

$50,000 / 2023 / Environment

In support of building legal resources and working with Baltimore’s most vulnerable communities to address water pollution and reduce industrial discharge through enforcement of permits in compliance with the Clean Water Act.

Learn More

Civic Works Inc.

$200,000 / 2023 / Community Development

In support of staffing for Civic Works’ Energy Programs, which offer weatherization, home energy efficiency, and health and safety improvements to low- and moderate-income households at no cost through state implementation funding and local utility rebates.

Learn More

Conscious Venture Lab Novella Center for Entrepreneurship Inc.

$300,000 / 2023 / Community Development

In support of the Conscious Venture Lab Accelerator Program and boot camp training for founders and entrepreneurs to support and attract talent, improve access to investment, and create jobs and generational wealth, especially among Black and brown founders and women entrepreneurs.

Learn More

Fund for Educational Excellence

$50,000 / 2023 / Education

In support of general operations.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.