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

A Step Forward, Inc.

$5,000 / 2010 / Criminal Justice and Addiction
Toward assistance with the payment of utility bills and a matching requirement for a Volunteer Maryland Coordinator in support of a transitional housing facility serving homeless men and women who suffer from substance addiction, along with challenging issues such as financial deprivation, mental health, past incarceration, and unemployment.

South Baltimore Emergency Relief, Inc.

$24,000 / 2010 / Health and Human Services
For general operating support of the food pantry and the energy assistance program. The center, open Monday through Thursday, provides food, toiletries, and infant products, as well as financial assistance to prevent utility terminations and evictions, and to purchase prescription medications.

The Shepherd’s Clinic

$50,000 / 2010 / Health and Human Services
For continued support toward operating costs of a clinic providing primary and specialty health care services for approximately 2,000 uninsured persons in Baltimore City.

Santa’s Helpers Anonymous, Inc.

$5,000 / 2010 / Health and Human Services
Toward support of the “Elves Bring Christmas to Those in Need” program for low-income families and the elderly in Baltimore City.

Santa Claus Anonymous

$5,000 / 2010 / Health and Human Services
In support of the 2010 Santa Claus Anonymous Campaign.

Header photo courtesy of Thread.