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

Frederick Community Action Agency

$24,500 / 2002 / Health and Human Services
For the purchase of a box-type cargo van to transport donated, usable surplus food for the mobile food bank serving people living in poverty on the outskirts of Frederick.

Franciscan Center

$10,000 / 2002 / Health and Human Services
Toward the cost of computer upgrades for the Health Support Initiative, an emergency outreach program for the poor in Baltimore City. This enhancement will enable the Center to be electronically linked to other service providers when meeting clients’ needs.

Food Link

$5,000 / 2002 / Health and Human Services
Toward handling fees for gleaned produce distributed to more than 100 emergency feeding programs in Anne Arundel County.

Family Crisis Center of Baltimore County

$5,000 / 2002 / Health and Human Services
For the purchase of mattresses, linens and replacement beds for a shelter serving domestic violence victims.

Druid Heights Community Development Corporation

$25,000 / 2002 / Health and Human Services
Start-up funds for the establishment of the New Life Recovery Program, a transitional recovery house for ex-offenders in Baltimore City.

Header photo courtesy of Thread.