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 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 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 your saved application or submit a report for a previously awarded grant.

Return to Your Application or Submit a Report

See Our Past Grants

South Baltimore Emergency Relief, Inc.

$20,000 / 2009 / Health and Human Services
For general operating support of the food pantry and energy assistance programs. The center, which is open Monday through Thursday, provides food, toiletries, and infant products; and utility, eviction, and prescription assistance.

The Shepherd’s Clinic

$50,000 / 2009 / Health and Human Services
Toward operating costs to provide primary and specialty health care to uninsured persons in Baltimore City. With an extensive network of volunteer medical personnel and its longstanding partnership with Union Memorial Hospital, Shepherd’s Clinic will be able to provide high quality, low-cost health care to more than 750 uninsured Baltimore City residents.

Santa Claus Anonymous

$5,000 / 2009 / Health and Human Services
For support of the 2009 Santa Claus Anonymous Campaign

The Salvation Army

$5,000 / 2009 / Health and Human Services
For general support for the homeless and needy.

Public Justice Center

$5,000 / 2009 / Health and Human Services
Toward production costs of an educational film to be shown in the Baltimore Juvenile Courthouse for youth entering the foster care system. The film gives a first-hand glimpse into the process foster youth face when entering the system, and provides them with a better understanding of how the Juvenile Court works, individuals’ rights and responsibilities, and how to maximize system benefits.

Header photo courtesy of Thread.