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

I Can’t We Can, Inc.

$30,000 / 2001 / Health and Human Services
For expenses related to the renovation of three houses in West Baltimore to accommodate recovering addicts participating in a 60-day detoxification program.

I Can, Inc.

$63,000 / 2001 / Health and Human Services
In support of the transitional housing program providing shelter and extensive case management services for 58 homeless men for up to 12 months of residency. The goal of the program is to provide a period of stability for the men during which they can pursue educational credentials, job skills training, financial planning and budgeting and to prepare for a move into permanent housing.

Helen Keller Worldwide

$15,000 / 2001 / Health and Human Services
For continued training and technical assistance in support of Baltimore City Health Department’s implementation of the ChildSight program in Baltimore City public middle schools. The initiative provides free vision screening and glasses for those children with severe refractive error who might not be able to afford the services otherwise.

Health Care for the Homeless, Inc.

$5,000 / 2001 / Health and Human Services
For emergency funds to provide shelter for homeless clients who cannot be served through Baltimore City services after the normal work hours.

Govans Ecumenical Development Corporation

$5,000 / 2001 / Health and Human Services
In general support of CARES (Civic and Religious Emergency Services), a center providing emergency food and financial assistance for utility cutoffs, eviction prevention and medical prescription needs. The program was developed by representatives of 34 local churches and community organizations to serve the special needs of the homeless, hungry, senior citizens and mentally ill.

Header photo courtesy of Thread.