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

Santas Helpers Anonymous, Inc.

$5,000 / 2012 / Health and Human Services
Toward support of the 2012 Elves Bring Christmas to Those in Need program, which serves low-income families and elderly in Baltimore City.

Seedco

$75,000 / 2012 / Workforce Development
For expansion and continued support of EarnBenefits Baltimore, a web-based tool that helps 4,000 low-wage workers and individuals access federal, state, and city benefits and income support programs.

Single Carrot Theatre

$5,000 / 2012 / Arts
Toward support of outreach programs designed to bring theatrical experiences to the Station North Arts & Entertainment District. Viewing theater as a teaching tool, Single Carrot partners with schools and colleges, human service organizations, and libraries and museums, and offers pre- and post-performance discussions that engage audiences in dialogue.

South Baltimore Emergency Relief, Inc.

$24,000 / 2012 / Health and Human Services
For continued support of operating costs of the food pantry, which serves more than 250 clients per month, and for a program that serves up to 50 clients per month to help prevent utility turn-off.

South Harbor Renaissance

$5,000 / 2012 / Community Development
Toward construction costs of the Flag Staff Plaza in Federal Hill Park, in an effort to restore the park’s playground.

Header photo courtesy of Thread.