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

Civic Works, Inc.

$200,000 / 2022 / Community Development

In support of staffing for Civic Works’ Energy Programs, which offer weatherization, home energy efficiency, and health and safety improvements to low- and moderate-income households. Services are provided at no cost through state implementation funding and local utility rebates.

Learn More

CollegeBound Foundation, Inc.

$100,000 / 2022 / Education

In support of the CollegeBound Finishers’ Fund for graduates of Baltimore City Schools. The Finishers’ Fund is designed to address emergency needs for students who experience a sudden change in financial aid or are “near-completers” looking to return to college.

Learn More

The Community School

$25,000 / 2022 / Education

In support of the academic and mentoring program at The Community School. The Community School is a state-certified, non-public school that provides individualized academics and mentoring for high school students who require an alternative educational route.

Learn More

Food & Water Watch

$30,000 / 2022 / Health and Human Services

In support of Food & Water Watch’s efforts to ensure the effective implementation of the “Water4All Affordability Program,” a percentage-of-income water assistance program for low-income residents in Baltimore City.

Learn More

Fund for Educational Excellence

$50,000 / 2022 / Education

In support of general operations for the Fund for Educational Excellence, an organization that supports public education through its fundraising and collaboration with Baltimore City Public Schools, convening of stakeholders, and serving as a fiscal sponsor to education non-profits.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.