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 for a Small Grant?

If you have never received an Abell small grant (requests of $10,000 or less), you must attend an information session to confirm fit with eligibility criteria and funding priorities prior to submitting a small grant application. 

Sign up for an info session

Considering Applying for a Regular Grant?

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?

If you are a returning applicant or have met our eligibility criteria and requirements and are ready to apply for a grant, you may do so on the apply page.

Start a 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

Saint Frances Academy

$157,400 / 2012 / Education
To pilot a year-round boarding school program at Saint Frances Academy for seven homeless Baltimore City boys who will also attend the high school. The pilot will determine the feasibility of making a formal commitment to provide a structured environment with meals, study, and social activities in a nearby row house. By providing safe living arrangements and supervision, the program aims to increase chances of graduation and post-secondary college or career placement.

Saint Frances Academy

$5,000 / 2012 / Education
Toward support of the Fall 2013 After-School Program at the Drs. Camille and Bill Cosby Community Center for inner-city children.

Saint Frances Academy

$5,000 / 2012 / Education
Toward renovation costs of a house owned by Saint Frances Academy to be used by boarding students.

Saint Frances Academy

$230,000 / 2012 / Education
Toward administrative staffing costs and operating costs for the 2012-2013 school year. The college-preparatory school for students dealing with multiple socio-economic challenges offers partial scholarships to most of its 220 students, 92 percent of whom enroll in college. Funds are used to maintain critical social services, including counseling, and to keep the community center accessible throughout the year. Funds include the cost of hiring a director of development.

Santa Claus Anonymous

$5,000 / 2012 / Health and Human Services
For support of the 2012 Santa Claus Anonymous Campaign.

Header photo courtesy of Thread.