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

Project Own Inc.

$25,000 / 2025 / Community Development

In support of general operations to build out its digital mortgage readiness application Rooted, which is designed to improve accessibility to financial coaching for borrowers and improve efficiencies and effectiveness of housing counselors.

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Public Justice Center Inc.

$37,500 / 2025 / Community Development

In support of policy advocacy to build legal defense and tenant assistance programs to prevent evictions and increase housing security, challenge unjust practices that create systemic harm to renters, and advance tenants’ rights to safe, habitable housing.

Learn more

Public Justice Center Inc.

$45,000 / 2025 / Health and Human Services

In support of increasing cash benefits for low-income families.

Learn more

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy

$60,000 / 2025 / Community Development

In support of continued efforts to engage communities near the Baltimore Greenway Trail to participate in planning that will lead to the completion and publication of the Equitable Development Strategy.

Learn more

ShareBaby

$40,000 / 2025 / Health and Human Services

In support of the general operations of ShareBaby, which addresses the basic needs of Baltimore’s most vulnerable young children through the distribution of diapers and other essential items.

Learn more

Header photo courtesy of Thread.