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

Maryland PIRG Foundation

$15,000 / 2007 / Community Development
Toward the implementation of a statewide campaign to promote energy policies focused on efficiency and conservation. MaryPIRG will produce timely and relevant research on models for energy-efficiency and conservation programs and practices, including case studies with cost benefits, funding mechanisms, and best methods of program delivery. Such efforts will encourage the state to pursue energy policies that are consumer-oriented and environmentally sustainable.

Johns Hopkins University/Environmental Sciences and Policy Programs

$43,328 / 2007 / Community Development
For support of Indicators for Urban Sustainability in Watershed 263 in West Baltimore. The project will measure trends in aspects of environmental, economic, and social characteristics related to planned restoration projects in Watershed 263, a systematic and holistic sustainability project. The project includes tree planting, clearing and greening of vacant lots, reducing litter, cleaning streets and alleys, creating community gardens, improving city parks, greening schoolyards, increasing recycling, and supporting community stewardship.

Healthy Neighborhoods, Inc.

$75,000 / 2007 / Community Development
For general support of a partnership of banks, foundations, government agencies, and community organizations committed to strengthening underserved neighborhoods. The intent is to increase home values, create standards for property improvement, and increase the level of renovation and improvement in participating neighborhoods targeted for revitalization.

Govans Ecumenical Development Corporation

$5,000 / 2007 / Community Development
Toward a strategic planning initiative. With the completion of Stadium Place in sight, the corporation sees the need to establish the direction of the organization, setting priorities for the population served, and determining the extent of expansion.

Friends of Patterson Park

$15,000 / 2007 / Community Development
For general support of the maintenance of restored facilities and landscapes of Patterson Park. In addition to keeping the park facilities operational and well maintained, the program seeks to provide recreational opportunities, educational outreach, and cultural arts programming in partnership with other community organizations.

Header photo courtesy of Thread.