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 reach out to an Abell staff member to discuss their idea or submit a short letter of inquiry prior to submitting a regular grant application.

Contact Us or Email Us 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 a saved application or submit a report for a previously awarded grant. Report forms can be found under the “Requirements” tab.

Return to Your Application or Submit a Report

See Our Past Grants

Leveling the Playing Field Inc.

$30,000 / 2022 / Health and Human Services

In support of Leveling the Playing Field’s general operations in Baltimore, including collecting and redistributing sporting equipment to schools and organizations serving low-income children in Baltimore.

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Living Classrooms Foundation

$200,000 / 2022 / Workforce Development

In support of Project SERVE, a transitional employment program that enrolls up to 150 returning citizens a year, providing them with paid, on-the-job work experience.

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Maryland Consumer Rights Coalition Inc.

$57,850 / 2022 / Community Development

In support of staff and outreach costs associated with the Low Income Forgotten Tax (LIFT) program. LIFT helps low-income homeowners and renters access the Homeowners and Renters Tax Credit programs and other public benefits.

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Maryland Hunger Solutions, An Initiative of Food Research & Action Center

$60,000 / 2022 / Health and Human Services

In support of Maryland Hunger Solutions’ Baltimore City SNAP outreach and enrollment campaign, which works to connect vulnerable populations with federally funded SNAP (food stamp) benefits, a key strategy in reducing food insecurity in Maryland.

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Maryland Regional Direct Services Collaborative

$30,000 / 2022 / Workforce Development

In support of producing and disseminating a report on improving job quality for direct services workers in Baltimore.

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Header photo courtesy of Thread.