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

Interfaith Action for Human Rights

$50,000 / 2022 / Criminal Justice and Addiction

In support of Interfaith Action for Human Rights (IAHR) and its continued work with Maryland partners to end the practice of solitary confinement in Maryland.

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Jews United for Justice

$75,000 / 2022 / Community Development

In support of advocacy for renters’ rights, stronger legal protections, and eviction prevention for renters in Baltimore City in collaboration with a coalition of organizations including Baltimore Renters United.

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Johns Hopkins University

$200,000 / 2022 / Health and Human Services

In support of School Vision Advocates, who work to ensure the success of Vision For Baltimore.

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Kids in Need of Defense

$50,000 / 2022 / Health and Human Services

In support of KIND-Baltimore’s general operations. KIND-Baltimore provides free legal representation to 500 unaccompanied immigrant children and youth each year.

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The Literacy Lab

$75,000 / 2022 / Education

In support of The Literacy Lab’s evidence-based, small group tutoring program, serving over 850 students in Pre-K and K-3 classrooms in Baltimore City Public Schools during the 2022-2023 school year.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.