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

Baltimore City Competitive Robotics Program, Fiscally Sponsored by Fund for Educational Excellence

$100,000 / 2023 / Education

In support of coach stipends, equipment costs, and tournament fees for the Baltimore City Competitive Robotics Program, a citywide initiative serving nearly 700 students.

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Baltimore Kids Chess League Inc.

$65,000 / 2023 / Education

In support of the 2023-2024 after-school chess program for nearly 1,700 K-12th grade students in 57 Baltimore City schools.

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Baltimore Tree Trust

$75,000 / 2023 / Environment

In support of Baltimore Tree Trust’s Neighborhood Forestry Initiative, which offers hands-on training in tree planting and maintenance to create viable employment pathways, increase Baltimore’s tree canopy, and improve the health of neighborhood residents.

Learn More

Behavioral Health Leadership Institute Inc.

$100,000 / 2023 / Criminal Justice and Addiction

In support of expanding the Project Connections on the Street (PCOS) program, which will allow PCOS to work directly with the Baltimore City Police to increase direct access to treatment for detained individuals who are amenable to diversion to community voluntary treatment.

Learn More

Building STEPS Inc.

$40,000 / 2023 / Education

In support of STEM workshops, college advising, STEM-related internships, and college-directed programming.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.