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

Center for Urban Families Inc.

$300,000 / 2023 / Workforce Development

In support of CFUF’s Economic Success programming for Baltimore residents to access and retain meaningful employment and create intergenerational wealth and family achievement.

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Chase Brexton Health Care

$75,000 / 2023 / Health and Human Services

In support of a new social work position that will focus on connecting uninsured clients at Chase Brexton’s Baltimore City clinic to free or affordable specialty care.

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City Life Community Builders Ltd

$30,000 / 2023 / Community Development

In support of down payment and closing cost assistance for service-oriented professionals, including police officers, firefighters, and health care facilitators, in the neighborhoods surrounding the Henderson Crossing redevelopment project in East Baltimore.

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Civic Works Inc.

$50,000 / 2023 / Health and Human Services

In support of completing the renovation of a former firehouse to serve as a home for Civic Works’ Food and Farm programs, and a community food distribution hub.

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Civil Justice Inc.

$100,000 / 2023 / Community Development

In support of the Tenant Debt Collection Defense Project, which provides legal representation and network attorneys for low- and moderate-income tenants who are sued after being evicted by rental property owners.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.