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 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

Ingenuity Project Inc.

$370,000 / 2022 / Education

In support of The Ingenuity Project’s gifted and talented math and science instructional program for 924 Baltimore City students.

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Johns Hopkins University

$80,000 / 2022 / Health and Human Services

In support of the Johns Hopkins, Esperanza Center, and Loyola Refugee Health and Asylum (HEAL) Collaborative, which provides pro bono forensic physical and psychological evaluations to asylum-seekers who have survived torture and trauma.

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Latino Economic Development Center

$50,000 / 2022 / Community Development

In support of Latino Economic Development Center’s business technical assistance and lending services to meet the needs of entrepreneurs and business owners from communities of color and underinvested communities in Baltimore. These services launch and expand businesses, create jobs, and build wealth.

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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.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.