Abell Trustees Select Fagan Harris as Next President and CEO

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 your saved application or submit a report for a previously awarded grant.

Return to Your Application or Submit a Report

See Our Past Grants

10:12 Sports

$30,000 / 2025 / Health and Human Services

In support of 10:12 Sports’ athletics, mentoring, and job readiness programs for youth and alumni.

Learn more

Baltimore Education Research Consortium

$30,000 / 2025 / Education

In support of general operating support for the Baltimore Education Research Consortium to develop research-practice partnership projects.

Learn more

Baltimore Urban Baseball Association (BUBA)

$30,000 / 2025 / Health and Human Services

In support of Baltimore Urban Baseball Association’s (BUBA) general operations.

The Book Thing of Baltimore Inc.

$30,000 / 2025 / Education

In support of general operating funds to build out The Book Thing’s operational capacity, expand the number of giveaway days each month, solidify structures to reinforce its volunteer base, build fundraising capacity, and assist with board development.

Learn more

Building STEPS Inc.

$40,000 / 2025 / Education

In support of the STEM workshops, college advising, internships, and college-directed programming to nearly 400 Baltimore City students.

Learn more

Header photo courtesy of Thread.