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

So What Else Inc.

$25,000 / 2025 / Health and Human Services

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

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STEM Center of Excellence Inc.

$40,000 / 2025 / Education

In support of the Fibonacci Center at Gaslight Square (1401 Severn St) in Pigtown.

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STEM Champions of Baltimore Inc., Fiscally Sponsored by Fund for Educational Excellence

$55,000 / 2025 / Education

In support of the STEM Champions Competition Clubs, which will engage 600 students in 50 middle and high schools in preparation for the National Science Olympiad.

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The Tender Bridge Inc.

$30,000 / 2025 / Health and Human Services

In support of Tender Bridge’s general operations to support its long-term mentoring and youth athletics programs.

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UEmpower of Maryland

$60,000 / 2025 / Health and Human Services

In support of UEmpower of Maryland’s general operations to serve as a community hub in Carrollton Ridge.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.