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

Baltimore Tree Trust

$75,000 / 2026 / Environment

In support of general operations for the Neighborhood Forestry Initiative for tree planting and care, urban wood reuse, and enhanced training to restore Baltimore’s tree canopy and offer green career pathways.

Learn more

Bluebird Education Network

$125,000 / 2026 / Education

In support of the St. Elizabeth Expansion Project, designed to add nearly 20,000 additional feet of instructional space, increase access to 60 high-quality pre-kindergarten seats, and relieve space constraints at Patterson Park Public Charter School.

Learn more

BUILD

$75,000 / 2026 / Criminal Justice and Addiction

In support of BUILD’s efforts in organizing and training leaders, including returning citizens, to address systemic criminal justice barriers in Baltimore City and Maryland.

Learn more

Building STEPS Inc.

$35,000 / 2026 / Education

In support of STEM workshops, college advising, STEM-related internships, and college-directed programming for 550 Baltimore City students on their pathway to higher education.

Learn more

Caroline Center Inc.

$25,000 / 2026 / Workforce Development

In support of the Caroline Center’s healthcare careers training programs, and aiding graduates in furthering their careers as certified medical assistants, patient care technicians, and mammography technicians.

Learn more

Header photo courtesy of Thread.