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

Year Up Washington, Inc.

$115,000 / 2009 / Workforce Development
For continued support and expansion of the Year Up Baltimore Program, a workforce development initiative for 40 talented at-risk young adults, ages 18 to 24. The training prepares participants for entry-level positions in information technology.

The Work First Foundation

$400,000 / 2009 / Workforce Development
For the implementation of the Baltimore Ex-Offender Reentry Employment Program. Participants receive up to four weeks of job readiness training that includes resume writing, mock interviews, computer basics, financial literacy, anger management, and conflict resolution. After being matched with job opportunities, graduates are placed into employment.

Vehicles for Change, Inc.

$110,000 / 2009 / Workforce Development
Two grants for the continuation and expansion of an initiative that sells cars at a very low cost to low-income persons in Baltimore City.

St. Vincent de Paul of Baltimore, Inc.

$80,000 / 2009 / Workforce Development
For continued support of the Learn to Earn job training program at the St. Ambrose Outreach Center. In addition to training in child care, medical terminology, nursing assistant certification, and culinary arts, the center offers opportunities for clients to improve in language arts, math, and computer skills.

Seedco

$75,000 / 2009 / Workforce Development
For expansion and continued support of EarnBenefits Baltimore, a technical assistance initiative designed to help low-wage workers and individuals access 24 different federal, state, and city benefits and income supports.

Header photo courtesy of Thread.