Grants for Catholic Activities is sponsored by Knott Foundation. Grants and loans to programs focused on Catholic activities, including faith-based community services, in Maryland.

Where We Work - The Knott Foundation Requests are accepted from organizations and programs serving the Archdiocese of Baltimore , including Baltimore City and the following Maryland counties: Allegany , Anne Arundel , Baltimore , Carroll , Frederick , Garrett , Harford , Howard , and Washington .

We do not fund the following projects: Unrestricted grants, requests that would sub-grant awards, endowment funds, individuals, medical research, one-time-only events, seminars, or workshops, organizations in operation for less than one year, political activities, pro-choice causes and reproductive health services in direct conflict with the teachings of the Catholic Church, public school education and public sector agencies, charter schools, reimbursable(s) or any prior expenses, and scholarships.

These eligibility guidelines apply to all funding vehicles ( general fund , strategic initiative , and discretionary grants, and cash flow loans). To learn more about the different ways we give, please see How We Give. General Fund - These one-year responsive grants allow us to respond to a wide-range of community needs.

Applications begin with a Letter of Inquiry and are accepted three times a year in February, June, and October. Nonprofits meeting the Foundation’s eligibility guidelines may submit one (1) General Fund Letter of Inquiry per year during one of our open grant cycles in February, June, or October.

Strategic Initiatives - With a focus on long-term impact, our Strategic Initiatives are carefully selected programs that address specific goals within our mission. These initiatives are designed to create lasting change through targeted investments in areas where we believe we can make the most difference - Catholic schools, Workforce Development, and Youth Empowerment. Applications are by invitation only.

Discretionary Grants - Smaller in size, but often more responsive in nature, discretionary requests are accepted and awarded on a rolling basis throughout the year. Awards range from $500 to $2,500.

Cash Flow Loans - Understanding the financial hurdles that can impede progress, our Cash Flow Loans provide low interest cash flow loans to qualifying nonprofits who are experiencing delayed receivables, such as late grant payments or other reimbursable expenses. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year.

By leveraging these four funding pathways, the Foundation aims to create a versatile and effective framework for achieving its mission.