Read our 2024 Annual Report

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 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 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 your saved application or submit a report for a previously awarded grant.

Return to Your Application or Submit a Report

See Our Past Grants

AIDS Interfaith Residential Services, Inc. (AIRS)

$12,500 / 2004 / Health and Human Services
To cover closing costs for the acquisition of two, single-family homes for low-income, homeless families living with HIV/AIDS. In addition to providing service-enriched, quality housing in stable neighborhoods, AIRS counselors assist clients with medical care, job training, income, and life-skills training.

Adopt A Block, Inc.

$49,000 / 2004 / Health and Human Services
For the purchase of a 24-foot panel truck, and for hiring and training a formerly homeless person to become its licensed driver. “A Can Can Make a Difference,” a component of Adopt A Block, distributes food to local outreach food programs, soup kitchens, churches, and homeless shelters. The truck is considered essential for picking up and distributing donated food.

Teach For America

$180,000 / 2004 / Education
For expenses related to the cost of recruiting, selecting, training, and building a support network for Teach For America corps members teaching in Baltimore City public schools. These recent college graduates make a two-year commitment and are offered an opportunity to earn a Master of Arts in Teaching at The Johns Hopkins University.

Sisters Academy of Baltimore

$40,000 / 2004 / Education
Toward start-up costs for the establishment of a parochial middle school for at-risk adolescent girls in West Baltimore. The school offers scholarships, small classes, an extended school day, increased parental involvement, and faith-based learning.

The SEED Foundation

$185,800 / 2004 / Education
For a feasibility study and planning grant for establishment of a college preparatory public boarding school to serve disadvantaged students in Baltimore City. By providing safe and comfortable room and board, and a network of support involving parents, teachers, house parents, counselors, and boarding community coordinators, this residential school will address challenges facing urban youth.

Header photo courtesy of Thread.