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 Community School

$25,000 / 2023 / Education

In support of the academic and mentoring program at The Community School.

Learn More

Energy Justice Network

$50,000 / 2023 / Environment

In support of staff and operational costs for the Clean Air Baltimore Coalition project, which focuses on deconstruction instead of demolition for older buildings, and building decarbonization with a focus on meeting the city’s climate goals by electrifying the district energy heating system.

Learn More

Fuel Fund of Maryland

$50,000 / 2023 / Community Development

In support of the Silver Lights energy assistance program for Baltimore City seniors and households with critical medical needs, which provides one-one-one navigational support for accessing utility fee assistance.

Learn More

Grow Home Inc.

$60,000 / 2023 / Workforce Development

In support of establishing a youth apprenticeship program and expanding the Baltimore Builders program, providing 65 youth from the Brooklyn/Curtis Bay neighborhood with paid work experience and exposure to careers in high-growth industries.

Learn More

Homeless Persons Representation Project Inc.

$123,000 / 2023 / Health and Human Services

In support of the Homeless Youth Initiative, which provides legal representation to unaccompanied homeless youth, engages in state and local coalitions to address the needs of homeless youth, and advocates for policy solutions to youth homelessness in Maryland.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.