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

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.

The Shepherd’s Clinic

$49,000 / 2004 / Health and Human Services
Toward malpractice insurance required for the clinic to provide free or minimal cost primary medical and dental care to uninsured persons in Baltimore City.

Transitioning Lives, Inc.

$25,000 / 2004 / Health and Human Services
A challenge grant for the expansion of services provided by a residential re-entry program for ex-offenders. Transitioning Lives houses six men in a structured, residential environment for a period of up to six months. Each resident is expected to participate in substance abuse and vocational counseling, NA/AA meetings; to contribute toward rent and food; and to participate in housecleaning and kitchen responsibilities.

United Way of Central Maryland

$50,000 / 2004 / Health and Human Services
For general support of United Way’s effort to address health and human services in the Central Maryland region.

University of Maryland Medical System

$50,000 / 2004 / Health and Human Services
Toward expenses related to the Breathmobile program for asthma treatment of inner-city children in Baltimore City public schools. The program, which delivers state-of-the-art asthma care to more than 400 children, is expected to decrease asthma attacks, absenteeism, and emergency room visits. Data collected will assess the program’s effectiveness.

Header photo courtesy of Thread.