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

Human Rights for Kids

$50,000 / 2022 / Criminal Justice and Addiction

In support of general operations for Human Rights for Kids (HRFK), which works to advance criminal justice reform for children in Maryland through coalition building and public education. HRFK centers its reform efforts on children’s exposure to trauma as the leading cause of juvenile delinquency and crime.

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I AM MENtality Youth Male Empowerment Project

$40,000 / 2022 / Health and Human Services

In support of the I AM MENtality Leadership Development Academy, a community-based mentoring and youth development program for elementary, middle, and high school-aged males in Baltimore City.

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Identity Access Project

$35,580 / 2022 / Health and Human Services

In support of Identity Access Project’s partnership with the Franciscan Center, which will help Franciscan Center clients obtain vital documents.

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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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Header photo courtesy of Thread.