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

Arts for Learning Maryland

$40,000 / 2023 / Education

In support of capacity building at three new community school sites.

Learn More

Baltimore Community ToolBank

$15,000 / 2023 / Community Development

In support of staff costs associated with the lending of tools and equipment to community based member organizations for a nominal fee. Items are typically used for community clean-ups, beautification, festivals, and other projects.

Learn More

Baltimore Digital Equity Coalition, Fiscally Sponsored by Maryland Philanthropy Network

$75,000 / 2023 / Community Development

In support of staff costs associated with efforts to expand the Coalition’s work in four areas: access to devices; greater Internet connectivity; digital skills training and support; and advocacy.

Learn More

Baltimore Green Space

$50,000 / 2023 / Community Development

In support of efforts to bolster and support the long-term sustainability of and access to green spaces. Baltimore Green Space will collaborate with community leaders and residents to protect additional green spaces and provide technical assistance.

Learn More

Baltimore Medical System Inc.

$100,000 / 2023 / Health and Human Services

In support of increasing access to family planning services and effective contraceptive methods for uninsured patients at the EBMC and Yard 56 clinics.

Learn More

Header photo courtesy of Thread.