Our 2027 application deadlines and board meeting schedule are now available.

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

Manna House Inc.

$25,000 / 2026 / Health and Human Services

In support of the Manna House meal program.

Learn more

Maryland Book Bank

$50,000 / 2026 / Education

In support of general operating costs and purchasing books for the Home Library Project.

Learn more

Maryland Community Investment Corporation / Neighborhood Impact Investment Fund

$200,000 / 2026 / Community Development

In support of the Baltimore Vacants Reinvestment Initiative Support Fund.

Learn more

Maryland Department of Information Technology

$62,500 / 2026 / Workforce Development

In support of hiring a specialized, time-limited team of contractual state employees to create the AI tools needed to ensure that Maryland families can access and continue to receive essential benefits and services.

National Center on Institutions and Alternatives

$120,000 / 2026 / Workforce Development

In support of the National Center on Institutions and Alternatives to train 225 Baltimore residents who are eligible to receive SNAP benefits in commercial driving, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), or automotive repair.

Learn more

Header photo courtesy of Thread.