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

So What Else Inc.

$25,000 / 2022 / Health and Human Services

In support of So What Else’s food rescue and distribution program, which operates weekly food distribution events at more than 20 sites throughout Baltimore City.

Learn More

University of Maryland Baltimore Foundation

$60,000 / 2022 / Education

In support of the Positive Schools Center’s efforts to build restorative schools by providing training, staff and leadership coaching, direct community supports, and technical assistance.

Learn More

University of Maryland Baltimore Foundation

$100,000 / 2022 / Health and Human Services

In support of the University of Maryland School of Dentistry’s Oral Health for Uninsured and Under-served Children program, which provides free dental services to low-income children who lack health insurance.

Learn More

Venture for America

$185,000 / 2022 / Community Development

In support of recruiting, selecting, and training Venture for America (VFA) Fellows for two-year fellowships with entrepreneurs and companies in Baltimore’s start-up ecosystem. By attracting talent, particularly among people of color and women, VFA strengthens and diversifies the local entrepreneurial economy.

Learn More

Baltimore Corps

$125,000 / 2022 / Community Development

In support of staff and operational costs for the Campaign for Citywide Service, an effort to respond to the needs and challenges facing the city and its residents who are looking for meaningful and emerging employment opportunities.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.