Nonprofit organizations across the United States provide important services, including food assistance, homeless shelters, affordable housing, education, healthcare, and community development. However, running these programs requires money. Grants for 501(c)(3) organizations can help eligible nonprofits pay for programs, expand services, purchase equipment, and support their communities.
A 501(c)(3) organization is generally a nonprofit recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. These organizations often qualify to apply for grants from government agencies, private foundations, corporations, and community organizations.
The important thing to understand is that 501(c)(3) status does not automatically guarantee grant funding. Each grant provider has its own eligibility requirements, deadlines, funding priorities, and application process.
This guide explains where nonprofits can find legitimate grants, which programs may provide funding, how to apply, and where to find official information.
What Are Grants for 501(c)(3) Organizations?
Grants for 501(c)(3) organizations are financial awards provided to eligible nonprofit organizations to support approved activities or projects.
Unlike traditional business loans, grants generally do not require repayment when recipients follow the grant agreement and use the money for approved purposes.
Grant funding may support services such as emergency housing, food distribution, youth development, educational programs, healthcare access, community improvement, and assistance for low-income families.
However, some grants only cover specific project expenses. Others may allow administrative expenses, employee salaries, equipment purchases, or operating costs.
Organizations must carefully review each funding opportunity before applying.
Who Qualifies for 501(c)(3) Grants?
Many nonprofit grant opportunities require applicants to have official 501(c)(3) recognition from the IRS.
Common eligible organizations include charitable organizations, food banks, homeless assistance nonprofits, educational charities, community development groups, nonprofit healthcare providers, and qualifying religious organizations.
Grant providers may also consider an organization’s location, annual budget, years of operation, financial records, project goals, and ability to manage funding.
Some federal programs allow additional types of applicants, including certain government agencies, tribal organizations, and nonprofit organizations without 501(c)(3) status.
Organizations can check their federal tax-exempt status using the IRS’s official Tax Exempt Organization Search.
Federal Grants for 501(c)(3) Organizations
The federal government provides funding for many public-service projects. Most federal grant programs are administered by specific agencies, and nonprofit organizations must meet the requirements of each program.
Below are legitimate government funding sources that 501(c)(3) organizations can explore.
1. Grants.gov – Federal Grants for Nonprofit Organizations
U.S. FEDERAL GOVERNMENT
Grants.gov is the federal government’s central website for finding and applying for federal grant opportunities. It is one of the most useful starting points for nonprofit organizations seeking government funding.
The website allows organizations to search for opportunities from multiple federal agencies. Nonprofits can search by funding category, agency, eligibility, and application deadline.
Grants.gov includes an applicant eligibility category specifically for nonprofit organizations with IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) status, other than institutions of higher education.
How to apply: Visit Grants.gov, open the grant search page, and select the 501(c)(3) nonprofit eligibility category. Review the full Notice of Funding Opportunity before beginning an application.
For most federal organization applications, the nonprofit must register with SAM.gov and Grants.gov.
2. HUD Continuum of Care Grants for Homeless Assistance
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
Official HUD Continuum of Care Program
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides grant funding to support programs that help people experiencing homelessness.
One important funding source is the Continuum of Care (CoC) Program.
This program supports community efforts to reduce homelessness and help individuals and families find stable housing.
Eligible nonprofit organizations may seek funding for approved housing and supportive service activities. Depending on the project and grant rules, eligible costs may include rental assistance, supportive services, leasing, operating costs, and certain housing development expenses.
Private nonprofit organizations are among the eligible applicants. However, the CoC program uses a coordinated local application process, so organizations generally work with their local Continuum of Care rather than submitting an independent application directly to HUD.
How to apply: Contact your local Continuum of Care, review HUD’s current competition guidance, and determine whether your proposed project qualifies.
HUD’s FY 2026 CoC competition was announced in June 2026, and the published application deadline was September 30, 2026. Organizations interested in future rounds should follow HUD’s official announcements.
3. USDA Community Facilities Grants for Rural Nonprofits
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTUREOfficial USDA Community Facilities Direct Loan & Grant Program
The U.S. Department of Agriculture supports essential community facilities in eligible rural areas through its Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program.
This program can be useful for nonprofits planning to develop or improve facilities that serve rural communities.
Potential projects include community centers, healthcare facilities, public-service buildings, and certain educational or community support facilities.
Eligible nonprofit organizations may be able to receive grant assistance, loans, or a combination of funding sources, depending on the project’s qualifications and available funds.
The program is not a general operating grant. Funds must be used for eligible community facility projects.
How to apply: Contact your USDA Rural Development state office, confirm the project’s rural eligibility, and ask about available funding and application requirements.
4. AmeriCorps Grants for Community Service Programs
AMERICORPSOfficial AmeriCorps Funding Opportunities
AmeriCorps provides funding opportunities connected to national service and community needs.
Nonprofit organizations involved in education, disaster services, economic opportunity, environmental projects, and community improvement may find relevant opportunities.
AmeriCorps funding can help qualifying organizations operate structured service programs that engage participants in approved activities.
Funding requirements vary by program. Some grants support service-member positions and program operations rather than unrestricted nonprofit expenses.
How to apply: Visit the AmeriCorps funding page, identify an opportunity suited to your organization’s work, and review the current eligibility and application rules.
5. National Endowment for the Arts Grants
NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE ARTS
Official NEA Grants for Arts Projects
The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) provides grants to support eligible arts projects across the United States.
Its Grants for Arts Projects program supports activities in areas such as arts education, music, theater, museums, dance, literature, and visual arts.
Eligible applicants include U.S. nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status, certain government agencies, and federally recognized tribes.
Under the published guidelines, most Grants for Arts Projects applicants may request $10,000 to $100,000, while eligible local arts agency subgranting projects may request higher amounts.
Applicants generally need at least five years of arts programming experience, a minimum of $20,000 in operating expenses in their most recently completed fiscal year, and a one-to-one cost share.
How to apply: Read the current NEA grant guidelines and complete the application process by the applicable deadline.
6. National Endowment for the Humanities Grants
NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE HUMANITIESOfficial NEH Grant Programs
The National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) provides grant opportunities supporting humanities research, education, cultural preservation, and public programs.
Eligible nonprofit organizations may include museums, historical societies, libraries, cultural institutions, and organizations conducting humanities-related projects.
For example, a nonprofit may seek funding for an eligible local history preservation project, educational exhibition, or public humanities program.
The amount of funding, required experience, and application rules depend on the specific grant program.
How to apply: Visit the NEH grants page and select a program that matches the nonprofit’s mission and proposed project.
7. HHS Grants for Health and Human Services Nonprofits
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICESOfficial HHS Grants Information
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) administers federal grant programs related to health, families, children, and human services.
Depending on the funding opportunity, eligible nonprofits may find support for community health initiatives, family services, behavioral health programs, and assistance for vulnerable populations.
HHS funding is administered through different agencies and offices, so there is no single grant that automatically covers every nonprofit providing health or social services.
Organizations should identify the appropriate HHS program and read the official eligibility criteria.
How to apply: Review HHS grant information and search Grants.gov for active opportunities from HHS agencies.
8. USDA Technical Assistance and Training Grants
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE — RURAL DEVELOPMENTOfficial FY 2026 Technical Assistance and Training Grant Listing
USDA’s Technical Assistance and Training grant opportunities can support eligible nonprofits providing assistance and training connected to rural water and waste systems.
An official FY 2026 opportunity posted October 1, 2026, identifies IRS-recognized private nonprofit organizations as eligible applicants.
Published FY 2026 opportunity
Estimated total program funding
$35 million
Listed application deadline
Dec. 31, 2026
These figures describe the federal funding opportunity, not the amount an individual nonprofit will receive. Check the listing for amendments and complete eligibility requirements.
This opportunity is best suited to organizations with the technical ability and experience required to deliver the specified assistance. It is not a general-purpose grant for any nonprofit.
Private Foundation and Corporate Grants for 501(c)(3) Organizations
Federal funding is not the only option. Private foundations, businesses, and community foundations also provide grants to eligible charitable organizations.
Private funding can sometimes be more suitable for smaller nonprofits, particularly when the grant provider focuses on a specific community or type of charitable work.
9. Walmart Spark Good Local Grants
Official Walmart Local Grants Information
Walmart’s Spark Good Local Grants program provides support for eligible organizations working in local communities.
Qualifying 501(c)(3) public charities may be eligible, along with certain other types of organizations accepted under Walmart’s guidelines.
Local grants have traditionally ranged from $250 to $5,000, although applicants should verify the current funding amounts and grant cycles before applying.
Funding may help support local charitable projects such as food assistance, education, and community services.
Organizations should review the eligibility rules and apply through Walmart’s official Spark Good system when applications are being accepted.
10. The Home Depot Foundation Grants
Official Home Depot Foundation Website
The Home Depot Foundation supports charitable projects connected to housing, veteran services, disaster response, and community improvement.
Its Community Impact Grants program has supported eligible nonprofit organizations undertaking projects that improve community facilities and spaces.
These projects may include repairs, improvements to community buildings, and other qualifying activities.
Funding availability, eligible project costs, and application periods vary. Some programs provide gift cards or materials rather than unrestricted cash.
Nonprofits should visit the foundation’s official website to identify active opportunities.
11. Bank of America Charitable Foundation Grants
Official Bank of America Charitable Foundation Funding
Bank of America’s charitable giving supports nonprofit organizations working to strengthen communities.
Its funding priorities have included economic mobility, workforce development, basic needs, and community development.
Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations may find funding opportunities when their work aligns with the foundation’s priorities and geographic requirements.
Not every nonprofit qualifies, and applications may be accepted only during designated funding periods.
12. Community Foundation Grants
Community foundations provide an important source of funding for nonprofits serving specific cities, counties, or regions.
These foundations often receive charitable donations and use them to support local organizations through competitive grant programs.
A community foundation may support food pantries, homeless services, after-school programs, healthcare access, or neighborhood improvement projects.
Unlike nationwide funding programs, community foundation grants usually have geographic restrictions.
Nonprofits can use the Council on Foundations to learn about the foundation sector and research potential local funding sources.
State and Local Government Grants for Nonprofits
State and local governments may also provide grants to nonprofit organizations delivering public services.
These opportunities may be administered through state housing departments, departments of health, human services agencies, arts councils, and local community development offices.
For example, an organization operating a homeless shelter may find relevant funding through a state housing agency. A nonprofit providing meals to older adults may find opportunities through state or regional aging-service agencies.
Local governments may also distribute certain federal funds to eligible nonprofit organizations.
Because funding differs widely by state, organizations should visit their state’s official government website and look for grant announcements from agencies connected to their mission.
How Much Grant Money Can a 501(c)(3) Organization Receive?
There is no single grant amount available to every 501(c)(3) organization.
The amount depends on the funding provider, the size of the project, the nonprofit’s qualifications, and the grant agreement.
| Grant source | Funding information |
|---|---|
| Grants.gov | Varies by federal opportunity |
| HUD Continuum of Care | Based on eligible projects and award decisions |
| USDA Community Facilities | Depends on project costs and eligibility |
| NEA Grants for Arts Projects | Generally $10,000–$100,000 for most applicants under published guidelines |
| Walmart Spark Good Local Grants | Traditionally $250–$5,000 |
| Community foundations | Depends on foundation and grant cycle |
These are not guaranteed award amounts. Nonprofits should always review the current official grant guidelines.
How to Apply for Grants for 501(c)(3) Organizations
Applying for a grant requires preparation. Organizations should have a clear purpose, financial records, and a realistic plan for using the funding.
Step 1: Verify your nonprofit’s tax-exempt status
Check your organization’s IRS recognition and obtain a copy of its determination letter if needed. The IRS provides access to determination letters and nonprofit filing records through its official search system.
Step 2: Find grants that match your mission
Search for grants related to the organization’s work. For example, a nonprofit serving homeless families should prioritize housing and human-service grants instead of unrelated arts or scientific research grants.
Step 3: Review eligibility and prepare documents
Common requirements may include an IRS determination letter, EIN, organization budget, financial statements, board information, project description, and evidence of community need.
Step 4: Write a grant proposal
Explain what the nonprofit does, the problem it wants to solve, how the project will work, how many people it expects to serve, and how it will measure results. Include a detailed budget showing how the requested funding will be spent.
Step 5: Register for federal grants when required
Federal applicants generally need a Unique Entity ID (UEI), active SAM.gov registration, and a Grants.gov account with appropriate application permissions.
SAM.gov and Grants.gov are the official registration websites.
Step 6: Submit the application and follow the instructions
Submit all required documents before the deadline. If awarded funding, follow the grant agreement, maintain accurate records, and complete required financial and performance reports.
Documents Commonly Required for Nonprofit Grants
Grant application checklist
0 of 8 readyIRS 501(c)(3) determination letterEmployer Identification Number (EIN)Articles of incorporation and bylawsRecent Form 990 or applicable financial recordsOrganization operating budgetProject budget and written proposalBoard member and leadership informationProof of relevant program experience
Copy checklistExact document requirements vary by grant provider.
Can a New 501(c)(3) Organization Get Grants?
Yes. A newly established 501(c)(3) nonprofit may qualify for certain grants, but some funding providers require organizations to have an operating history.
For example, the NEA Grants for Arts Projects program requires a minimum history of arts programming, so it would not generally be suitable for a brand-new organization without that experience.
New nonprofits may have better opportunities through local community foundations, smaller charitable grants, or programs specifically designed for emerging organizations.
A new nonprofit can improve its applications by showing clear community needs, realistic budgets, qualified leadership, and a well-developed project plan.
Can Churches Receive 501(c)(3) Grants?
Churches and qualifying religious organizations may be eligible for certain nonprofit grant opportunities.
However, eligibility depends on the grant provider and the proposed use of funding.
Some grants support community services delivered by faith-based organizations, such as food distribution, homeless assistance, and educational activities.
Government grants may impose restrictions on religious activities funded by the award. Churches should carefully review applicable rules before applying.
Churches should also understand that qualifying churches can receive federal tax-exempt treatment without filing Form 1023 for IRS recognition, although individual grant providers may require specific proof of eligibility.
Can 501(c)(3) Organizations Receive Grants for Operating Expenses?
Some grants provide general operating support, which allows nonprofits to pay for approved everyday organizational expenses.
Other grants restrict funding to a specific project.
Depending on the grant agreement, eligible expenses might include employee salaries, rent, utilities, equipment, transportation, or administrative costs.
Nonprofits should not assume that all operating expenses are covered. Every funding opportunity has its own approved cost categories.
How to Avoid Fake Nonprofit Grant Offers
Nonprofits should be careful when receiving unexpected messages promising guaranteed grant money.
Legitimate grant programs generally have written eligibility requirements, official application procedures, and a review process.
Be cautious about anyone claiming that an organization has already been approved for funding without applying.
Federal registration through SAM.gov and Grants.gov is free. Organizations do not need to pay a private company simply to register.
Always verify grant announcements through the official agency or foundation website before sharing sensitive organizational or financial information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are grants for 501(c)(3) organizations free money?
Grants generally do not require repayment when the recipient complies with the award conditions. However, they are not unrestricted free money. Recipients must use funds for approved purposes and may need to submit reports.
Does every 501(c)(3) organization qualify for government grants?
No. Federal agencies establish specific eligibility requirements for each funding opportunity. IRS tax-exempt status alone does not guarantee eligibility.
Can a nonprofit apply for multiple grants?
Yes. A nonprofit may apply for multiple grant opportunities if it meets their requirements. However, it must avoid charging the same expense to multiple federal awards when prohibited by the funding rules.
Can nonprofits get grants to buy a building?
Some programs may support eligible building acquisition, renovation, or facility development. USDA Community Facilities and certain HUD programs are examples worth researching, but their rules differ.
Do nonprofit grants require matching funds?
Some do, while others do not. For example, NEA Grants for Arts Projects generally require a one-to-one cost share.
Where can small nonprofits find grants?
Small nonprofits can start with Grants.gov, local community foundations, state agencies, and corporate charitable programs. It is important to search for funding that matches their mission, location, and operating experience.
Official Resources for Finding Nonprofit Grants
| Resource | Official website |
|---|---|
| Federal grant opportunities | Grants.gov |
| Federal registration | SAM.gov |
| IRS nonprofit verification | IRS |
| Housing and homeless assistance | HUD Grants |
| Rural community facilities | USDA Rural Development |
| Community service programs | AmeriCorps |
| Arts grants | NEA |
| Humanities grants | NEH |
| Health and human services | HHS |
Final Thoughts
Grants for 501(c)(3) organizations can provide valuable funding for nonprofits that serve their communities. Federal agencies, private foundations, corporations, and local organizations offer different funding opportunities for eligible charitable work.
The best approach is to begin with the nonprofit’s mission, identify grants that support its activities, and carefully follow each provider’s requirements.
Organizations should also check application deadlines, confirm that funding is currently available, and prepare accurate financial records before submitting proposals.
With a clear project plan and the right funding opportunities, nonprofit organizations can improve their chances of securing support for meaningful community programs.
Information note: This guide uses official government and grant-provider resources. Grant availability, funding amounts, and deadlines can change. A program’s inclusion does not mean applications are currently open or that every 501(c)(3) organization qualifies.
