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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

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.

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.

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.

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.

See Our Past Grants

Saga Innovations DBA Saga Education

$75,000 / 2024 / Education

In support of general operating expenses for Saga’s high-impact tutoring program, launching in three Baltimore high schools and serving around 435 students.

SOS Fund, Fiscally Sponsored by Parity Baltimore Inc.

$65,000 / 2024 / Community Development

In support of operational support to protect legacy residents from displacement and preserve affordable housing in order to ensure long-term neighborhood stability in historically red-lined communities in Baltimore City.

Thread Inc.

$400,000 / 2024 / Education

In support of general operating expenses for Thread, which will serve 1,296 young people during the 2024-2025 academic year.

University of Baltimore Foundation

$50,000 / 2024 / Criminal Justice and Addiction

In support of the Tackling Chronic Absenteeism Project, which helps to increase attendance and reduce recidivism in middle school age youth.

The University of Chicago (Crime and Education Lab)

$75,000 / 2024 / Criminal Justice and Addiction

In support of the Baltimore Police Department’s participation in the University of Chicago’s Policing Leadership Academy.

Header photo courtesy of Thread.