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 for a Small Grant?

If you have never received an Abell small grant (requests of $10,000 or less), you must attend an information session to confirm fit with eligibility criteria and funding priorities prior to submitting a small grant application. 

Sign up for an info session

Considering Applying for a Regular Grant?

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?

If you are a returning applicant or have met our eligibility criteria and requirements and are ready to apply for a grant, you may do so on the apply page.

Start a 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

BioTechnical Institute of Maryland Inc.

$80,000 / 2023 / Workforce Development

In support of training Baltimore residents for entry-level technician roles in the bio-pharma industry.

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Blue Water Baltimore Inc.

$70,000 / 2023 / Environment

In support of advocacy for sewer and stormwater infrastructure investment and science-based improvements to decrease pollutants in Baltimore’s waterways, improve local water quality and public health, and build climate equity and resiliency among Baltimore City communities.

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Central Baltimore Partnership Inc.

$100,000 / 2023 / Community Development

In support of capital costs associated with creating a community health hub in the Midway neighborhood, which will transform 1.5 acres of underutilized greenspace into an outdoor classroom, multi-sport playing field, and best-in-class play amenities.

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Chesapeake Legal Alliance

$50,000 / 2023 / Environment

In support of building legal resources and working with Baltimore’s most vulnerable communities to address water pollution and reduce industrial discharge through enforcement of permits in compliance with the Clean Water Act.

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Civic Works Inc.

$200,000 / 2023 / 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 at no cost through state implementation funding and local utility rebates.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.